I was still in bed that night. Tossing restlessly when sleep avoided me. The candles on my nightstand had long been extinguished, and I was too defeated to close the window that fanned them.
I believe there was more to my somber mood than the sacrifice of my sister's happiness. But also, my pride had been affected. I had let Prince Jules overcome me, and now—perhaps—my people doubted me as their prince.
I was their prince no more but an ordinary man amongst them.
I could not function as a lesser than. There was no purpose for me this way—if not to lead or help or bring in crowds of those I inspired.
All day, my people had avoided this house.
I think they had officially forfeited me.
