That night, after Nathaniel had finally gone to sleep, Daphne decided it was time to act.
She lay back against the pillows, replaying Katherine's words over and over. If she waited any longer, she would lose him completely. She could already feel him slipping away, piece by piece.
Alice was still in the room, straightening the covers and making sure everything was in place before leaving for the night.
Daphne forced a slow breath, then let her eyelids droop. When Alice turned toward her again, Daphne swayed slightly, as if the room had tilted.
"Your Highness?" Alice called out, stepping closer.
Daphne reached for the edge of the bed, she let her fingers miss it on purpose. Her knees buckled a little.
Alice was instantly at her side. "What's wrong? Are you dizzy?"
"I… I don't feel very good," Daphne murmured, letting her voice sound tired. "Everything feels heavy."
"I'll call for the physician. Right now."
