Lady Esme- POV
I excused myself from King Liam and stepped out of his office, needing a moment to breathe.
"Lady Esme, your lip is swollen," Lily murmured as I passed by. I quickly covered my mouth with my hand, suddenly aware of it.
"What happened, my lady?" she asked.
I was too shy to answer. Instead, I hurried back to my room, hoping the cool air would calm the heat spreading through my body.
My heart pounded in my chest—I could actually hear it. Was I ill? My face was burning.
"Lady Esme," Lendra's voice stopped me as she caught sight of my face. Her eyes widened with surprise.
"Lendra, I think I'm sick. My face is flushed, and my heart won't stop racing," I mumbled. "It happens more often when I see King Liam…"
"Oh, Lady Esme," she said softly, almost amused. "It sounds like you're in love."
"Love?" I repeated, stunned by the word.
"I don't think so," I whispered, averting my eyes.
