KODA'S POV
Ayasha fell asleep again, and I stayed by her side, just watching her.
The first sign of trouble came quietly, almost politely. A single knock on the door, then another. I didn't answer. I sat beside Ayasha's bed, my fingers laced through hers, trying to pretend the world outside that white curtain didn't exist.
"Your Highness?" a voice called, muffled and careful. "You're needed in the throne room."
It was too early for formalities and too late for sleep. I brushed Ayasha's hair from her cheek and pressed my lips to her forehead. Her skin felt warmer, color returning to her face, but she didn't wake. She was still there. I let myself believe that for a moment longer before I let her go.
I knew what this was about.
Outside the medical wing, three Sentinel guards stood in a neat row. They looked nervous. Their hands hovered near their swords, and none of them met my eyes for more than a second.
