Jasmine's POV
I rushed into the sitting room, my vision blurred by tears. My heart felt like it was breaking into a million pieces. I collapsed onto one of the plush sofas, burying my face in my hands as sobs shook my body.
"Your Highness? Is everything okay?"
The soft voice startled me. I looked up, wiping my eyes quickly, and saw a young maid standing near the fireplace. It was Lily, one of the newer maids who had been assigned to help me. I hadn't even noticed her when I came in.
"I'm... I'm fine," I lied, trying to force a smile. But my trembling lips and tear-stained cheeks gave me away.
Lily's kind eyes filled with concern. "You don't look fine, Your Highness. Is there anything I can do to help?"
I shook my head, not trusting my voice. I wanted to tell her everything, to pour o
