Esme – POV
Liam and I walked hand in hand toward the carriage. He helped me climb in before settling beside me. This carriage was meant to take us to Baredon Estate.
"We're not staying at Baredon Estate," Liam said suddenly.
"Then where?" I asked.
"I've booked the finest inns for us—for two more days—before we head to Eastborne Estate," he replied.
"My clothes are still at the estate," I pointed out.
"Yes, we'll pick them up and go. But…" He paused. "I don't see Lendra or Lily with you."
He sounded calm, but something in his tone felt distant—off. That worried me.
"They're out running some errands for me," I mumbled.
We arrived at Baredon Estate, and another carriage pulled up behind us—this one marked with the Baredon signet. I watched as Merina and my father stepped out.
"Your Majesty," Duke Rathon greeted with a deep bow.
"Greetings, Your Majesty," Merina said softly, her usual charming smile on display.
