William led Elizabeth through the winding corridors of the castle, his grip on her wrist firm yet gentle. They walked in silence, the tension from the dining room slowly dissipating with each step. Elizabeth's thoughts raced, wondering where he was taking her and why he had suddenly decided to leave the others behind.
After a few more turns, they reached a small, ornate door at the end of a secluded hallway. William pushed it open, revealing a narrow staircase leading upwards. "Come," he said softly, his voice a little gentler now.
