Casmir insisted that Isabella sleep in his chambers until they resolved the pending problem with Alexander and his persistent letters. Isabella found solace in Casmir's arms, breathing the herbal smell of his skin. His arms pulled her toward him protectively, making her smile in the darkness of the night.
The next morning, Isabella dressed in her own chamber, as another bird tapped at the window. She sighed heavily, at least Casmir knew what was happening. She sat at her writing desk, carefully reading yet another letter from Prince Alexander.
The words were filled with guilt and regret, and her heart ached as she traced her fingers over the inked lines. Her brows furrowed in a mix of sadness and uncertainty.
"My Dearest Isabella,
Each day that passes without you feels like an eternity. I cannot escape the torment of my own foolishness. My heart aches for you, for the moments we shared. I hope you remember them as fondly as I do.