The understanding that she was standing in front of the King, sent a thin thread of tension through Aveline's chest, though not enough to frighten her into retreat. If anything, it sharpened her focus.
Her gaze stayed on him a moment longer, taking in the expensive sort of presence that could not be fully disguised, not even beneath plain linen and a rake. He had come himself… here, in person, to the girls' dormitory, before she was even properly dressed.
Aveline's expression changed only slightly, but inside her mind, everything had become very still.
Whatever he wanted from her, it was clearly important enough to bring the King himself to her window.
She let an innocent smile bloom across her face, soft and sweet, so convincing that no one would have guessed she was quietly building walls inside her mind.
"You were not calling me over for snacks, were you?" she asked lightly. "I did not bring any, Mr. Just Kev. Should I go get some?"
