Soft sunlight slipped through the narrow gap in the curtains, spreading slowly across the room. It crept over the floor, climbed the edge of the bed, and finally rested against Isabella’s face.
A gentle knock followed as the door opened slightly, and a maid stepped in. Without making much noise, she walked toward the window and pulled the curtains wider. Light flooded the room instantly.
“It’s time to wake up, ma’am,” she said softly.
Isabella stirred. Her brows pulled together slightly as she shifted under the covers. The light felt too bright against her eyes. She raised her hand to shield her face, letting out a small yawn as she slowly pushed herself up into a sitting position.
Her movements were sluggish, her body still heavy from sleep. For a moment, she just sat there, trying to
