I returned to my room just before dusk. The tea gown still clung to me like silk and memory.
Elyse glanced up from her books. "You're back early. Everything alright?"
"Everything's clear."
I didn't elaborate. I didn't need to.
A letter lay on my desk.
Black wax. Royal crest.
I froze.
Not again.
I broke the seal and unfolded the page.
Lady Elira Winterose,
His Highness requests your presence at the North Garden pavilion tomorrow at noon. It is a personal matter.
Unsigned. But there was no mistaking the sender.
Prince Caelum.
The one who watched me burn.
"Are you going?" Elyse asked, reading my face.
"Yes."
"Why?"
"Because the past wants something. And I intend to find out what."