My hands were shaky when I was done dressing. I stood in the mirror, trying to give myself a little pep talk but nothing seemed to be working. I know I didn’t need the king to arrive at the table before me, that would be disrespectful, and I was hoping to make a good second impression since our first encounter didn’t go too well.

　　I hooked my earring and stepped out. Thomas was already waiting at the door to escort me, so we made our way to the royal castle, my heart banging in my chest as we drew closer.

　　I wasn’t going to let Thomas or any other person...