TWENTY SEVEN: Aiyana

My footsteps echoed softly against the polished marble floors of the grand palace corridors. I walked briskly, my fingers knotting and unknotting the delicate lace of my sleeve. My heart pounded against my ribcage. Where could Sephora be?

I glanced out the tall windows, the gardens outside a blur of green and gold as my vision unfocused. My hands moved to smooth the front of my gown, a nervous habit I couldn't seem to control. I took a deep breath, trying to calm the tumult within me, but it only made the tightness in my chest more pronounced.

Dori had informed me of her predicament yesterday. I had wished to see her afterwards, but I was told she was fast asleep, and I felt it best not to disturb her rest.

Has something terrible happened? Why had she left so suddenly? The look she had given me earlier haunted my thoughts. Was she angry with me for not coming to her? Regardless, I had to find her.