The next morning, Olessia was already awake. She had bathed and dressed early, yet she remained seated on the edge of the bed, unsure of what to do next. Kaive hadn't spent the night in the room, even though there were two beds.
She had expected him to, and the empty space unsettled her more than she cared to admit. Her fingers twisted together in her lap as she replayed the previous day in her mind. How was she supposed to face him now, after everything that had passed between them and everything left unspoken?
A soft knock pulled her out of her thoughts.
"His Royalty Kaive said you should come out to greet the village head," Dino's voice came through the door.
"I'll be out in a bit," she replied, pushing herself to her feet. She smoothed her dress carefully, as if the fabric could steady her nerves, then drew in a deep breath. The quiet moment stretched just long enough for her to gather herself. When she felt ready, she walked to the door, opened it, and stepped out.
