I slumped against the wall, staring vacantly at the floor. My mind swirled with thoughts of Elena, her sneers, her boldness, and how effortlessly she seemed to dismiss me—as though I was no one.
"Your Majesty?" I looked up and saw the maid who had found me on my first day here, standing nearby. She had that gentle, concerned look that was both comforting and painful.
"Kira…" I whispered, my voice cracking. "Do you think I'm crazy for trying to be with him? For holding onto a man who barely looks at me?"
She knelt down, placing a warm hand over mine. "I’ve seen many things in this palace, Your Grace. And I know you’re not crazy. But… love can make people feel that way." She gave me a soft smile, then sighed, her gaze serious. "I know who that woman is."
I blinked, my breath catching. "Y
