Esme – POV
Standing at the window, a humid wind brushed against my skin. I gazed out at the dark night sky—only stars, no moon on the skyline. Taking in the serene night, I looked back into my room—the best room, with the best view of the city, seen from the Baredon Estate. This room is reserved for royals only. My father and Merina must be angry that I'm staying up here as a royal.
A gentle knock sounded on my door.
"Come in," I muttered.
The head maid, Maragat, walked in with polite posture, but her eyes held a subtle hate.
"Long time no see, Maragat," I muttered.
Her composure was tense as I walked up to her.
"What brings you to my room?" I asked.
"A request from Lady Merina, asking you to attend the ball tomorrow night." Her tone carried an attitude—one where she looked down on me. Something inside me simmered; the way she looked at me was unsettling. The way she mistreated me, the way her eyes said you are nobody, burned.
