By the time they returned to the palace, the morning sun had risen fully, pouring gold through the tall arched windows like spilled honey.
Aliena walked slightly ahead of Sebastian this time, the edge of her dress brushing softly against the polished floors. The air inside felt different from the garden — heavier, structured, full of eyes that pretended not to look.
Sebastian was saying something about a meeting he needed to attend when she slowed abruptly.
"I want to see Dinna."
He blinked once. "Now?"
"Yes."
His brows lifted faintly. "Is it urgent?"
She hesitated.
"No. I just…" She looked down at her hands briefly. "I haven't seen her since my stepfamily arrived. It's been chaotic."
That was true. The palace had turned into a silent battlefield since their arrival — whispers, stares, forced civility. With the little time Dinna had served her, she had become close to her...they were like best friends.
Sebastian studied her for a moment.
Then nodded.
