In the earlier days they'd spent at the castle, even before they were given their parties, Tobias had noticed the way Cedric looked at Celeste — hopeful and full of yearning for the princess.
But her heart wasn't there, and whether Cedric realized it or not, she had already chosen a different direction.
Tobias tapped the side of the carriage and said, "Stop by the central market. I need to pick up some things before we leave the capital."
The driver nodded, adjusting the reins.
Celeste tilted her head. "Souvenirs?"
"For my party members."
Her face lit up instantly. "Can I help?"
He hesitated. "You'll behave?"
"No promises," she said cheekily, already ruffling her hair.
Her long black locks became a tousled cascade of waves.
She'd changed from her royal garments into commoner's clothes — simple yet elegant.
It was almost startling how much it changed her appearance. She looked like a young traveler instead of the princess of an empire.
