I took a long, deep breath, then another. After a few more, I slowly opened my eyes. In front of me were intricately carved double doors decorated with black, wrought-iron ornaments. I gazed upon their massive threshold, which led to the palace’s great hall.
The majority of guests had already made their entrance and were enjoying their time as they pleased. The only ones who remained were members of the royal family and a married couple—me and Sir Leonhart.
I don’t want to, whispered my heart. When I imagined being exposed to the stares of a slew of people ogling me like a rare animal, I wanted to do a one-eighty and go home. I hated standing out. Being rudely looked up and down, having my every move scrutinized, and constantly being criticized were all disconcerting and made me sick. If allowed, I’d flee and seclude myself in my territory for the rest of my life.
“Bad. I’m the one who made this decision,” I admonished myself quietly.
My mutterings couldn’t be heard by the knights standing on either side of the door, but they reached Sir Leonhart’s ears, since he was standing right next to me.
“Rose?”
I smiled, my eyebrows drooping. “I’m feeling a bit nervous.”
Sir Leonhart placed his hand atop my hand, which was looped over his arm. He gently squeezed my fingers to reassure me.
“It’ll be all right. I’m right by your side.”
“Yes.” Just hearing those words calmed me down. I’m quite the calculating woman.
A few moments later, I heard them announce the entrance of the Duchess and Duke of Prelier from within the hall.
“Shall we?” he asked.
“Yes.”
The knights grabbed the handles on their respective sides and opened the mighty door with a solemn creak. A din that sounded like waves filtered through the gap, along with the dazzling light radiating from chandeliers.
I took a step into that pandemonium of rampaging evil spirits—uh, I mean, the soiree hosted by the royal family.