Night had fallen. The castle stood still and quiet under the dark sky, with only the soft glow of lanterns lighting its stone halls. Lydia stepped out of her bathing room, her long golden hair damp and loose around her shoulders. Her maids had dressed her in a beautiful peach-colored gown that made her look even more delicate than she already was. The fabric shimmered slightly under the candlelight, matching the small, flickering hope in her heart.
She walked down the hallway, her heart beating a little faster with each step, hoping she would see him again—just like the night before. She remembered how Ivan had joined her at the dining table unexpectedly. Just sitting near him, even in silence, had filled her with warmth.
