ARIEL.
Two guards stood by the hallway, but they didn't look my way. I walked past them, holding back a wave of tears that threatened to pour down my cheeks.
Goddess knew I couldn't go back to my room. Not yet. I wasn't ready to answer Daneesha's questions and I didn't care if I got punished for appearing late for duties.
I slipped out through one of the side doors that led into the gardens, lifting my gown as I hurried down the cobblestone path flanked by rose bushes. I wasn't ready to be seen by anyone at this hour of the day.
As soon as I was deep in the garden mazed, I slipped into one of the stone seats lining the small lane and leaned back, closing my eyes as the morning sun hit my face.
This was shittier than I imagined.
I had gone from excitement to fear and anger in the
