CLARISSA'S POV
It's almost six o'clock by the time our car got through the gates of the palace. Guests have filled the large hall and it seems like the event has already began long before our arrival. Even the King and Queen are already in attendance, seated in the special cushion chairs and dining table exclusively prepared for them on the high platform.
I see Cornelius sitting by the side of the Queen, while the other two seats by the side of the King are empty. From the way the arrangement looks, one has to tell me the reserved two seats are meant for the crown prince and I.
Because I'm feeling nervous, my heart feels like it's made up of knots tightening and squeezing themselves together.
As I walk, Corrigan confirms my assumption by gesturing towards the front of the hall, telling
