Lady Esme – POV
I don't know what's happening to my body. The doctor said I had a fever, but it doesn't feel like that—no, it feels like I'm burning alive from the inside. I can't breathe. My emotions feel foreign, like something alien has taken root in me. I can't explain it, not even to myself.
What troubles me most is that King Liam hasn't even come to check on me. And Duke Edward? He wasn't at his post. He went off to inspect the security for the festivities and left his right-hand man, Jeremy, to stand guard instead.
"My lady, your gown is here for the tea party," Lily said as she entered the room, holding up a dress fit for a delicate gathering—a soft green gown trimmed with lace and frills at the sleeves and neckline.
I let them prepare me. My hair was braided and adorned with beautiful golden flower ornaments.
"You look beautiful, my lady," Lily said with a smile.
"The noble ladies would envy you at Lady Margaret's tea party," another maid chimed in.
