"You?" Daedric frowned, his features darkening at the sight of her. There was a flicker of irritation in his eyes, as if the mere presence of Hazel was an unwelcome interruption in his otherwise solitary ride. His posture shifted slightly, radiating an unspoken accusation, and Hazel could sense that.
"Your Royal Highness, I didn't mean to come after you," Hazel quickly clarified, sensing the defensiveness rising within her. "So, if you are thinking that I was following you, then you are wrong."
"I don't believe you," Daedric shot back. "If you weren't Maddox's daughter, you would have been punished," he added, his gaze piercing through her like a blade.
Hazel felt a flash of indignation at his arrogance. "Is that so?" she retorted, a slight chuckle escaping her lips, though it was laced with frustration.
