" Hi," I breathe, going into the closet. I grab a knitted dress and wear it before walking out. Lily is sitting on the bed, and I take the sofa across. Shai appears and jumps on my lap.

 

" She's cute," Lily purrs.

 

" Yes," I grunt in agreement. 

 

"Apphia, are you alright?" The princess finally asks what's on her mind. Did Nicholas say something to her?

 

"I found out that Nicholas is my mate..." I start. The look she gives me shows that she knows—they all do. " But Lily, I'm a mess, and he will reject me," I cry.

 

She sits beside me and hugs me kindly.

 

"...