Alice's POV:

Anthony, stationed by the door, furrowed his brow as I hurried barefoot towards him. With a solemn demeanor, he knelt and helped me into my shoes. "Princess, why are you awake at this hour?" I glanced out the door. It seemed I had just heard the scream of a woman. "Anthony, I just..." "You heard nothing, did you?" Anthony's expression remained calm. "What would you like for breakfast? I'll instruct them to prepare it." I understood. His meaning mirrored Robert's desire. If he didn't want me to know, I should act as though I didn't.

"I crave something sweet." "Very well. I shall inform them." Anthony smiled and...