Three days after Lord Kavan's arrest, Wish woke up to Ashley being unusually evasive.
"Good morning, Your Highness," Ashley said, already moving around the room with brisk efficiency. "We have a full day planned."
Wish sat up slowly. "What kind of full day?"
"Just—" Ashley paused, selecting her words carefully, "—preparations."
"Preparations for what?"
"For the day." Ashley was already pulling open the wardrobe, not looking at Wish. "There are several things that need attending to."
"What things."
"Important things." Ashley turned, holding a robe. "Your bath is ready. Cora and Ren are waiting."
Wish looked at her. Ashley was never evasive. Ashley was direct, organized, the kind of person who told you exactly what was happening and when. This version of Ashley — vague, avoiding eye contact, moving too quickly — was wrong.
"Ashley—"
"The water will get cold, Your Highness."
Wish got out of bed, suspicion already settling in her chest.
