She could commence anew in a locale beyond the palace’s dominion. She could reside among those who struggled for liberation and thrived in tranquilly, far removed from the palace’s tyranny and its inherent corruption. No longer would she contend with politics or subjugation. She would be free from the anxiety of potential reprimands and the humiliation inflicted by Vera, who sought to instill regret for her very existence.
They provided her with a residence free of constraints, unaware of its significance to her. Countless nights were spent dreaming of escaping the kingdom, where they could never find her. This was her ultimate desire. However-
However, Kylie.
“Could you please excuse me?” “I require some fresh air.” Molly rose abruptly, nearly toppling the stool before her.
“Certainly, are you well?”
Molly expressed her gratitude and swiftly exited the door into the frigid air to inhale deeply. Overwhelmed and lightheaded from her thoughts, she traversed the snow and positioned herself on a fallen log, away from the gaze of any onlookers.
How could she possibly forget Kylie? If Molly were to flee, Kylie would be compelled to remain there indefinitely. Under Jayce’s authority, she would be devoid of freedom. Molly would be unable to reconcile with herself if she were aware of Kylie’s suffering. Her friend would never inflict such pain upon her. Kylie consistently supported Molly and provided care during her moments of incapacity. She remained by her side through the darkest nights, never uttering a complaint. Kylie—Kylie was her closest confidante.
Molly drew her legs to her chest and embraced them firmly. It felt peculiar to wear trousers, as she had never possessed a pair at the palace due to propriety, always donning dresses instead. Although she appreciated dresses, she relished the comfort of trousers in this situation. She rested her forehead against her knees and shut her eyes tightly, the sole image in her mind being Kylie’s face.
How could she contemplate trusting these individuals after merely one day? They might be presenting an illusory utopia to ensnare her. Once ensnared, she would be vulnerable to their malevolence and treachery. However, it was increasingly challenging to maintain this scepticism. Colton appeared excessively benevolent to be disingenuous. Sir Harrison had shown her kindness in the cell and tended to her injuries without foreknowledge of her future in the north. Their generosity seemed too radiant to be fabricated. Or was it?
Should she return, there remained a possibility that her autonomy would not be restored. Jayce could oppose her release, thereby confining her, or the king might revoke it entirely, preventing her from ever experiencing the sensation of fresh air against her skin again. She would be denied the opportunity to explore the world and live freely, forever relegated to the status of a maid and subjected to corresponding treatment.
What type of monster would she become if she remained?
Molly?
Molly glanced back to find Colton positioned behind her, solitary with his hands buried in his pockets and a look of concern etched on his face. “May I join you?” If you prefer solitude, I can depart.
She placed her feet back on the ground and shook her head. “You may accompany me.”
Colton positioned himself beside her and gazed at the frozen lake before them. The atmosphere was tranquil and silent, although she discerned distant laughter. “Have you ever skated on ice?”“He enquired without making eye contact with her.”
“Oh!” “No, I would likely fall,” Molly stated, tugging at the hem of her sleeve. “In winter, the small lake at the palace becomes frozen.” Only the children approach it. Occasionally, they prefer to glide over it if it is sufficiently dense.
It is rather enjoyable. <text”I can demonstrate it to you if you wish.”
Molly provided a feeble smile yet refrained from replying. He eventually glanced at her, but she avoided his gaze.
“Remaining causes you distress.” Are you concerned about the prince?Colton enquired.
“Not exactly, but somewhat.” “It pertains more to my friend at the palace,” Molly stated.
“A paramour?”Colton enquired with elevated eyebrows. Molly chuckled and shook her head.
“Oh, no.” “I do not have a romantic partner,” Colton remarked, tilting his head slightly. “My closest companion is Kylie.” She was to be included in the amnesty being enacted for her release. I was as well, in fact. We intended to depart together and distance ourselves as much as possible from that location, but-
