Elara’s POV
I had just finished the last bite of breakfast when the maid knocked and stepped in, carrying a large silk bag.
“The king had this dress custom-made for you, my lady,” she said with a bright smile. “For your date this afternoon.”
I froze mid-sip of tea. “Date?”
She nodded, eyes sparkling with excitement. “Yes, my lady. You’re going on a date. Outside the palace.”
Outside the palace.
The words hit me like a spark. I had barely left these walls since Lucian brought me here. Now we were going on an actual date? My heart did a ridiculous flip. I was suddenly counting every minute until it was time to leave, pacing my room, trying on shoes, changing my hairstyle three times, and smiling at myself in the mirror like an i***t.
When the clock finally struck the hour, I took a de
