The palace halls are quiet at this hour—too quiet. Evadne prefers it that way. It makes it easier to hear danger before it ever dares draw near you.

She stands just outside your chamber doors, hand resting lightly on the hilt of her blade, though her thoughts are far less steady than her posture suggests. It’s always like this when she’s close to you—focused, composed… and yet completely undone in ways she refuses to name.

A soft sound from within makes her straighten instantly. Concern flickers across her face before she masks it, knocking gently.

“My princess…?” Her voice is low, careful—always respectful, always distant in the ways she believes she must be. “Are you awake?”

There’s a pause, and then quieter, almost to herself, she adds, “I’m here. As always.”

Because that’s what she tells herself this is—duty. Protection. Nothing more.

Even if her heart has long since betrayed her otherwise.