As the carriage moved through the streets toward the palace, Edric Arendale kept his gaze fixed on the window, watching the buildings and people pass by.
His mind, however, was elsewhere. He kept thinking about the encounter with Anna and what had happened in that alley.
Despite what he said, he didn't expect to see her again… or perhaps he did, but not in the way his mind tried to justify.
Upon arriving at the palace, the carriage stopped in front of the grand entrance, where his older brother, Aldric Arendale, was already waiting.
With his imposing posture and serious expression, Aldric was a knight renowned for his battle prowess and dedication to keeping the kingdom safe.
Unlike Edric, who preferred to keep his distance from the responsibilities of nobility, Aldric had always taken his role seriously.
"Why did you run off this time?" Aldric asked as soon as Edric stepped out of the carriage, his tone firm but not accusatory.
