Some believed Alaric sought forgiveness purely out of guilt, while others suspected deeper feelings developing between them.
Alina herself struggled to define her emotions, caught between residual anger toward his family and genuine admiration for his courage in confronting an uncomfortable truth.
As the day of his planned announcement approached, both of them understood that whatever happened next would permanently alter their futures professionally, socially, and personally in ways neither could fully predict.
On the evening of the Grand Autumn Assembly, exactly 1 year after their first meeting, Alaric stood before the same crowd that had once witnessed his unsettling question toward Alina.
This time, he spoke with clear purpose, addressing the assembled guests directly without hesitation.
He detailed his father's past wrongdoing, openly acknowledging the false accusations made against a talented seamstress named Clara Whitmore, Alina's late mother.
Gasps spread through the room as he presented evidence, confirmed by his own Aunt Beatrice, who stood quietly beside him in support.
He formally restored Clara's reputation, praising her skill and integrity publicly, ensuring her name would never again carry unjust shame.
Alina watched from the edge of the room, overwhelmed by a mixture of relief and lingering emotion as years of quiet suffering finally received the acknowledgement they deserved.
After his announcement, Alaric approached her directly, offering not only a heartfelt apology, but also financial support to help her reopen her mother's dress shop under her own name.
Alina hesitated briefly, wary of accepting charity, until he clarified that this was not generosity but rightful correction for a debt long overdue.