Ariana’s POV
The next morning, I woke up feeling groggy. For a moment, I just lay there, staring at the ceiling, trying to gather myself.
Eventually, I pushed off the bed and made my way to the bathroom.
After a warm bath and a change of clothes, I stepped out onto the balcony, letting the morning breeze brush against my skin.
Outside, the guards were already lined up in their positions, some taking instructions while others went about their routine drills.
My eyes moved from one place to another, quietly processing everything.
After a while, I realized I was subconsciously searching for Marco.
The moment the thought of Mother’s kiss with him crossed my mind, I face-palmed and sighed deeply.
I went back inside and rinsed my face with water, silently wishing I could rinse away t
