That day, Prince Stephano wore a black ensemble that gave him an unapproachable appearance. Leonor had no desire to interact with him, but, as she sat across from him, she knew there was no other choice.
"You look pale" were the first words out of Prince Stephano's mouth after Leonor sat down to join him for afternoon tea.
Leonor bowed her head in shame.
"I'm sorry, Your Highness," she quickly apologized. "I have been staying inside because I haven't been feeling well."
"Are the symptoms of whatever ails you bruises?" Stephano asked.
Leonor gasped and she couldn't keep herself from holding the largest bruise that spread across her ribs. The Prince noticed immediately it wasn't the bruise he had witnessed when she curtsied for him. He wondered how many more were hidden under the guise of a beautiful dress so it would seem she wasn't mistreated.
"I won't say anything unless you want me to," Stephano casually offered.
