The third set of carriages showed up and when Ayla noticed the house colors and crest, it was her turn to tighten up.
“Ayla?” Her father leaned over and whispered, “Are you feeling okay?”
She nodded, distracted, “I’m fine.”
“I believe you were the one who said that saying ‘I’m fine’ actually means that you are not.” He replied.
Despite the situation, she couldn’t keep the grin off her face, “You remembered.”
“Of course I did. I have a very good memory.” He straightened up, “Besides, it was you who told me and I try to listen to you.”
She nudged him with her shoulder, but didn’t reply as the servants let the occupants of the carriages out. An older man and a young woman exited the first carriage while a young man got out of the second carriage.
“King Emanuel,” Her father raised a han
