The ballroom's glittering ambiance felt distant as Eleanor followed Prince Adrian back to their seats. She glanced at him, hoping to find reassurance in his presence. He had been her anchor amidst the sea of judgmental glances and whispered gossip, but their momentary peace was disrupted when a nobleman approached Adrian.
The Prince hesitated, his sharp eyes lingering on her. "Will you be alright here alone?"
Eleanor smiled, masking the unease that threatened to surface. "I'll be fine, Your Highness. Go ahead. They're waiting for you."
Adrian studied her for a moment before rising, though it was clear he left reluctantly.
As soon as he stepped away, Eleanor felt the ballroom's undercurrent shift. The noblewomen nearby didn't bother to hide their stares, their whispered words heavy with disdain. Eleanor inhaled deeply and rose from her seat. A brief escape to the bathroom would give her the reprieve she needed.
