Emilia's POV
"Two nights from now," Veronica said behind me, "you will have the king's attention."
Veronica's voice was full of excitement, a stark contrast to her usually emotionless face. "The king will meet you in person, Emilia. Do you know how great an honor this is?"
I didn't speak. Veronica's gaze seemed to accuse me of being ignorant.
"I understand, Veronica," I replied finally, sitting by the dressing table, staring at my expressionless face in the mirror.
Veronica washed my cheeks with rose-infused water, giving my skin a rosy glow. Two maids brushed my long, thick hair with scented perfume, filling the room with fragrance.
Every inch of my exposed skin was covered with a mixture of ground pearls applied by the maids. Soon, my skin shimmered softly under the lamplight.
"Yo
