friends where he could discuss such things. I was his sister, and he was supposed to protect me from such conversations.
“I know I may sound sharp and as if I don’t care for your happiness. I do, but if you like Cole, take full advantage of it.
You only have what? A few weeks until he leaves and in that time, you could learn a thing or two.”
Before I could object to anything, he clicked his heels, and rode off out into the gardens, to wherever he needed to be.
Leaving me standing there with more questions than I had to start with.
(TRIGGER: MENTION OF CHILD SA. NOT IN DETAIL)
Heading back inside, I contemplated the words from Norok, wondering if it was truly possible for me to sneak off with Lord
Cole. I didn’t have a chance after lunch the other day. Mother watched me like a hawk, and by the time I returned from the
gardens, he’d already left for the evening.
I understood Mother only wanted to keep me safe, protect my name and not shame me. But she also had to keep the crown's
name protected and our families legacy. If it turned out Gelda wasn’t with child, it meant my brother could call off his marriage
and all eyes would turn towards me again.
Since the night I was stalked by that creature in the woods and the way my man of shadows crept into my bedroom, I hadn’t
escaped to the woods—my sanctuary—and it hurt my heart a little. I used that space as a place to escape, to heal and feel more
like myself.
Walking through the corridors of the castle aimlessly, I felt as if I didn’t have a purpose. I wanted to find something to do.
Talia was off visiting our grandmother and preparing for her debut into court life. Her day had been brought forward, after the
Festival of Light finished, she would be allowed out.
Which also meant, she’d be allowed to start looking for suitors and create connections. Thankfully, she would not have to
marry anyone, as she still had not come of age just yet. But it would give her the opportunity to get to know people.
Deciding against my better judgement, I headed towards the gardens, into the rose garden and then stepped through the tree
line. This time reminding myself not to go too far in and to leave within an hour, or two. I just needed to hear the birds singing,
the sound of the wind in the trees, and feel that soft spring breeze of fresh air against my skin.
Gathering my skirt in my arm, I stepped over a fallen tree and aimed for a wild lilac patch to sit and just enjoy some peace
and quiet. As I sat down on the damp ground, I closed my eyes and lifted my face up towards the sky, feeling the warm sun
brush against my skin.
I felt his presence before I opened my eyes and the pressure of someone leaning against my back. I didn’t want to open my
eyes or acknowledge him there, but my heart betrayed me as I felt it begin to beat faster once again.
“Are you here to try and convince me to leave with you again?” I asked, a little sarcasm at the tip of my tongue.
“Only if you ask me, will I be allowed.”