The royal garden was quiet beneath the afternoon sun. Leaves rustled softly as the prince sat beneath a broad tree, momentarily free from courtly eyes.

Footsteps hurried along the stone path.

Anaya slipped into the garden, clutching the edge of her maid’s apron, breath uneven.

Anaya: muttering to herself “I should never have left the pot unattended… if Auntie finds out, I’m finished…”

She turned suddenly—

And froze.

The prince sat only a few steps away.

Her heart leapt into her throat.

She bowed hastily, nearly stumbling over her own feet.

Anaya: “Y-your Highness! I—I didn’t mean to intrude!”

Her eyes met his for the briefest moment — and her cheeks burned red as she quickly lowered her gaze.