Night Fair (1)

Alicia, feeling the weight of their collective enthusiasm, finally relented, "Okay, okay. But, I can't step out of the palace without the Crown Prince's permission, you know." She offered a reasonable explanation for the obvious constraint she faced.

"Well, it's not like he's going to hold you back," Matilda giggled behind her palm, her eyes glinting mischievously.

"What do you mean?" Deeva and Tika questioned in unison, intrigued by Matilda's insinuation.

"I'm sure he's got a soft spot for his maid given the way how he looked after her, when she was sick for the past few days,"Matilda continued, her tone laced with a knowing look directed at Alicia, who blushed at the attention.