154
~Belinda's POV
The palanquin rocked slowly along the dirt road, and I kept peeking out from the side curtain. My father's house wasn't too far away now. My chest tightened with each step the horses took, and I felt a mix of fear and excitement. Fear because I didn't want him to see me here—excitement because I knew exactly why I had come.
I leaned forward, tapping Richard's shoulder through the small opening.
"Richard."
"Yes, my Lady?" he answered quickly, eyes darting back like a loyal dog.
"Stop here," I whispered. "Not another step closer to the gates."
He frowned a little. "Here? But we're not—"
"Do not question me!" I snapped, my voice sharp enough to make him stiffen. "Stop right here. I don't want my father to know I came. Do you understand me?"
Richard nodded fast, swallowing hard. "Yes, my Lady. I understand."
