Isadora's POV
I was crouching awkwardly behind a bush in the palace courtyard.
It was a ridiculously small bush. The thin green leaves and sparse branches were barely wide enough to cover my torso, let alone my full height.
Why on earth am I hiding like a total coward? I asked myself, clutching my cloak tightly against my chest as my heart hammered against my ribs.
This was completely unlike me. I was Isadora, a strong warrior who faced dangerous beasts and bloody battles without batting an eye. I didn't hide behind landscaping plants. I faced my fears head-on.
Yet, whenever he was anywhere nearby, every ounce of my usual bravery dissolved into thin air.
I leaned forward slightly, carefully peeking through the gaps in the leaves.
Nicholas was standing in the middle of the sunny stone garden path. His back was turned toward me, his dark hair catching the warm sunlight as he looked around the courtyard.
