The garden path glowed beneath the pale moon. Silver leaves whispered with the breeze, and the scent of night jasmine clung to the air. Liora's heart raced with every step.
Prince Kael stood near the fountain, his posture calm, but his eyes were sharper than a blade.
"You are restless tonight, Lady Liora," he said without greeting.
Liora's mouth went dry. "My apologies, Highness."
He tilted his head, studying her face like a predator watching prey. "Apologies are unnecessary. This court is… unforgiving."
Her breath hitched. "Do you know me?"
For the first time, his eyes flickered—not with surprise, but with something deeper. He smiled faintly.
"More than you think."
Her skin crawled.
Before she could ask more, a sudden shout tore through the garden.
"Guards! Intruders!"
Kael's eyes narrowed instantly. He pulled his sword, but Liora's hand shot out before she could stop him.
"Wait!" she hissed.
A masked figure lurked beyond the hedge, eyes burning with malice. Another figure rushed toward the fountain.
Kael's grip on his sword tightened, but his eyes met Liora's—and for a fleeting moment, trust flickered between them.