Just as she was about to release the arrow, a hand grabbed her arm from behind, halting her movement.
Her heart nearly stopped until she recognized who it was.
"You startled me, Your Majesty," she said, exhaling sharply as she forced herself to relax. "Don't do that again."
"Are you trying to expose yourself?" he asked in a low voice. Though calm, there was a distinct edge of disapproval in his tone. "It's very possible you're the reason they're here. Do you want to be caught?"
"No, of course not. But there's no way to know for certain they're after me," Edith reasoned. "There are so many people present tonight. It could be anyone."
He said nothing—just stared—and that unwavering gaze chipped at her confidence.
"Are you sure about that?" he finally asked.
She looked away.
"Don't act unless it's absolutely necessary. I'll handle everything tonight."
