I continued to ignore his summons day after day, pouring myself into my routine—feeding the cats, wandering the estate gardens, and even sneaking a few moments to sit by the fountain and let the cool spray wash over me. I kept my head high, even as the servants whispered behind my back, their eyes darting between me and the grand halls that led to him. Let them talk. I wasn't about to grovel at his feet like some obedient pup.
By mid-afternoon, I was back in my room, humming softly as I sorted through the few books I had brought with me from the library. The sun filtered through the window, warm and golden, and for the first time in what felt like ages, I allowed myself to relax.
And then it happened.
So suddenly.
So unexpectedly.
