TIARA THORNELLS
His lips curved into a faint, wistful smile. “Just one thing, please always take care of yourself. Especially in the castle.”
“I’ve gotten used to life there. I’ll be fine,” I replied, trying to sound reassuring.
“If there’s ever a chance… I’ll still try to see you,” he said in a low, gentle voice. “But don’t worry, I won’t let myself get caught. I know you’d be mad if I did.”
I let him speak, letting his words linger in the air without interrupting him. And then, his presence faded from the kitchen, like mist melting into the morning.
I immediately turned back to the sink and washed the empty dishes he’d left behind on the table, scrubbing faster.
An hour later, Prince Zatan arrived.
By next week, I’d be returning to the castle.
Over the past few days, Prince Zata
