I shift in my seat as I write, fighting to keep my tired eyes open. It’s nearing midnight and I’m normally fast asleep by now, but I have some important letters that need to be mailed out tomorrow afternoon, so I’m still in my study finishing them up. The palace is mostly dark by now as I’m sure all the staff are even asleep, with the exception of the night guards, and my study is the only room with candles and lights still on.

I’m surprised when there’s a faint tap on the doors and glance up, sighing as I set my paper down. “Yes?” I say quietly, rubbing the bridge of my nose, but pausing in surprise when I see you step in. You’re wearing your nightgown and your hair is a little messed up, so I assume you’ve just gotten out of bed. We got married about two years ago, only a few months before my father passed and I inherited the throne, making me the King and you my Queen.

“Darling, what are you doing awake?” I ask softly, standing up from behind my oak desk in front of the large window that looks over the back courtyard.