Chapter 223: The Gift
Lyria's POV
I had been enjoying spending time with Lucian.
That was the truth of it, and I could admit it to myself even if I would never say it aloud. I had enjoyed dancing with him, even when I stumbled. I had enjoyed the way he counted the rhythm, the patience in his voice when I faltered, the quiet satisfaction in his expression when I finally stopped thinking and simply moved.
I had enjoyed it as much as I had enjoyed my date with Duke Thorncrest the previous day.
Perhaps more.
The thought unsettled me, so I set it aside and did not examine it further.
The maids were gone now. They had helped me undress in silence, their hands efficient but cold, their expressions carefully blank. Not once had any of them offered a word of assistance beyond what was strictly required. They had exchanged glances while I bathed—little looks of silent communication that I pretended not to notice.
