APRIL
But honestly, as we walked deeper into the inner wing of the palace, that so-called confidence already began to evaporate. My fingers tightened around Edward's as we passed heavy red and gold curtains that framed the hall like regal banners. High swings with gilded ropes hung artistically from the ceiling—ornamental, I guessed, or maybe an ancient royal tradition. The floor was lined with a row of neat golden hurdles, symbols carved into each one that I couldn't begin to decode. Beneath our feet stretched a plush red carpet, leading us through the golden glow of thousands of glittering lights woven into the arches above us.
It was like walking through a fairy tale. One I didn't feel dressed or trained for.
We stopped in front of tall, intricately carved wooden doors. Edward gave
