Lyra's POV
The guard stationed outside examined me from head to toe before quickly averting his stare.
My insides churned with embarrassment. Did I really look that inappropriate? I tugged the silk robe closer around my body, suddenly hyperaware of how the thin nightgown barely reached my thighs. The delicate fabric felt almost transparent under his scrutiny, and the corridor's chill made me shiver.
"I need to see Kaelen," I announced, attempting to project confidence I didn't possess.
The guard gave a curt nod while avoiding eye contact. He grasped the handle and opened the door wide. "Enter."
"Thanks," I whispered, though he'd already turned his attention elsewhere.
I crossed the threshold and listened to the door seal behind me. The sitting area expanded before me, furnished with rich mahogany and supple leather pieces. Every item was positioned with surgical precision. No pillow sat askew. No decorative element lacked function.
