Ashley

I walked past the king without saying a word, my steps quick and uneasy. My heart was beating fast as I headed straight for my room. I just wanted to be alone, to breathe, to think. Everything felt too overwhelming.

“Stop.” His voice came from behind me, calm but firm.

I froze immediately and slowly turned to face him.

“Oh, your things have already been moved out of that room,” he said casually, as if it was nothing. “From now on, you will be staying with me. We will be sharing a room.”

My eyes widened in shock. “What?” I blurted out, completely taken aback. “Why would I have...