The contemplation elicited a poignant ache in my heart; a distressing sensation accompanied by a tear that threatened to escape from the back of my eye. However, I was uncertain if I could weep due to the swelling and bruising of my eyes.
“Ssshh,” a gentle voice murmured from beside me. I was unable to identify the speaker due to my inability to turn my head, but this individual was repositioning my pillow for enhanced comfort. “Refrain from excessive movement,” she advised, maintaining a subdued tone.
Kylie was the individual.
“Kylie …?””I whispered, my voice hoarse from dryness. “How did you arrive?”
“I requested to visit you,” she stated softly. “Mr. Leon exerted influence to grant me a brief reprieve.
How did you ascertain my presence here?I enquired; I yearned to rise and embrace her. It has been slightly more than a month since our last encounter, and words fail to convey the depth of my longing for her.
“You are aware of how swiftly information circulates within the palace,” she remarked. “Everyone is discussing Vera’s actions towards you.”
Is it accurate?“She enquired after a brief pause. Her eyes were wide with curiosity; I frowned, uncertain of her meaning.
What is true?I enquired.
“Did you engage in s****l relations with Prince Jayce?”She enquired, tugging at her fingers anxiously as she awaited my response.
No!”I stated promptly, “It is false.” He merely requested that I monitor him throughout the night. I remained on the couch. My uniform was damaged due to a spill. There is nothing further to discuss.
“Oh good,” she exhaled, appearing relieved as she sighed. “I was apprehensive for a moment.” Such an occurrence would prevent the king from endorsing that amnesty. We would never escape from this place.
“I would never exit this place,” I clarified. “You would still be able to.”
She scowled and negated with a shake of her head.
“Molly, we are united in this endeavour.” “I will not depart without you,” she stated, gently grasping my hand.
I flinched as she tightened her grip, and she subsequently released me with an apology.
“I must take my leave,” she remarked with sorrow. “However, I sincerely hope you will communicate to someone regarding Vera’s treatment of you.” I detest witnessing you in this state, and she almost ended your life…
Who will assist me?”I enquired with a derisive tone.”
No rational individual would assist a servant solely due to her punishment by her mistress. It is entirely permissible for a lady to discipline her maids as she deems appropriate. Vera, however, chose a form of punishment that nearly resulted in my demise.
“Could it be Prince Ashton?”Kylie remarked with a cunning smile.
“You jest,” I nearly chuckled. “Prince Ashton?” What reason could he possibly have to assist me?
She offered a knowing smile and shrugged her shoulders.
“Due to his profound affection for you,” she laughed.
Had I the ability to roll my eyes, I would have done so.
“Do not feign ignorance, Molly,” she stated, crossing her arms over her chest. “I am aware of his feelings for you.” It is evident. I observe the manner in which he gazes at you. He frequently visits the library and seldom engages in conversation with me. He appears to be anticipating your return. Upon seeing me, his expression slightly diminishes.
“That is absurd,” I contended, warmth flushing my face.
Is it indeed?”She enquired, her eyes sparkling with amusement. “I am certain that if you conversed with him, he would assist you in any way possible.”
“I will be fine,” I reassured her.
She exhaled in exasperation while approaching the door, yet she hesitated briefly and glanced back at me.
“Please consider it, alright?”She implored.
I exhaled audibly.
“Very well,” I murmured.
When was I scheduled to see her again?
“Molly, prioritise your well-being, understood?”“She spoke gently.”
“You as well, Kylie,” I remarked softly as she exited through the door.
…
Several days had elapsed since my visit to the medic; Vera had scarcely spoken to me as she was preoccupied with organising Luna Queen Kamila’s birthday celebration.
The oedema surrounding my body had significantly diminished, allowing me to ambulate and perform minor tasks within the palace. A substantial bandage adorned my cheek, a result of Vera’s laceration inflicted by her nail. I received several sutures, but the medical staff assured me that scarring would be minimal. I remained hopeful of their accuracy.
I additionally devoted time to evading Jayce.
I recalled him dimly after my beating; it appeared he was on the verge of reprimanding Vera, though I doubt it progressed to that point. Nonetheless, I distinctly remember his gaze directed at me. It was imbued with animosity and revulsion, sending a shiver down my spine. A painful sensation gripped my stomach as he loomed over me; I lay in a pool of my own blood, struggling for survival, and he could scarcely muster a shred of compassion.
Prince Jayce’s animosity towards me was evident to all observers.
Despise me sufficiently to attempt to assault me, yet subsequently discard me as if I am inconsequential.
Perhaps I was insignificant…
…
I longed for my tranquil days in the library. I approached the library and opened the doors.
A familiar voice remarked, “I believed I saw you entering here,” which startled me.
I almost sprang to my feet, but the pain restrained me, and I winced in distress. “Take it easy!”
