A Heart Like Glass [Book 1]

Chapter 17

I was disappointed when Isolde had little to say about her conversation with the crown prince.

Meanwhile, she wouldn't stop gushing over his good looks.

It's been a week since I'd found the guy bleeding in the clearing, and all Isolde could talk about was how handsome and muscular he was. She'd make so many comments about his "chiseled features" and "dazzling smile" that I'd nearly begun rolling my eyes the last time she'd brought him up. Considering that I can't talk to her about how handsome Ashe is, it feels a bit unfair to hear her go on and on about the prince. I'll admit, it even bothers me a little bit.

I know that she means no harm. It's just odd because she wasn't like this in the novel, but it's all she can talk about now. Maybe it's different since she has another girl her age to talk to about it. I suppose that makes sense...

I threw my balcony doors open to get some fresh air. Unlike the bright, full moon that the sky held last week, the wane crescent moon shone very little light tonight. At least the stars lit the sky up well enough to make up for it.

I walked to the rail and leaned against it. As the breeze blew through my blue curls, I thought about the next event that would take place according to the novel.

Jubilate begins tonight.

Two weeks of celebration that I won't be able to enjoy. I'll miss the traditional dances, delicious food, and beautiful fireworks because I'll be trapped in this cage. Stuck in this hell hole.

I didn't go to the festival last year. I was too focused on finding a way back home, Andreas never allowed me to attend events in the city or go anywhere really. Before telling me about his grand scheme for power, he would tell me that it was "far too dangerous" for me to visit as there were often robberies and muggings in the capital at night. Funny enough, he said the same thing to Isolde in the novel, which is why Khol snuck her out to the festival.

My heart sank at the thought of not being able to go out this year. Ashe and I had talked about going to the festival if our plans were delayed. I'm sure he'd be there tonight, selling items at the stall and... missing me.

I miss him.

Of course, there's no way I can leave without crossing the border and alerting Keelan. He'd probably teleport the short distance and grab me if I tried. But I don't want to run away, not anymore. After reviewing the logistics of sailing away, I realized it was a terrible plan.

I simply want to see Ashe. I want to talk to him and...

My feet began aching from the flats I was wearing, and I winced as I took them off. Searing, stinging pains ran down my back as I bent over. Andreas had added some new lashes to my back the other day as part of my regular punishment, and they haven't healed over thanks to Klovis being so light on the healing magic.

I was beginning to worry that the abuse might escalate, but I refused to play his game... so it's to be expected. But I'm not about to become a pawn for that guy. I won't become a villain in this story. I've never been a vengeful person, and I wasn't going to be one now.

I plucked my shoes off the ground and went to place them inside. I'd almost reached the balcony doors when I heard a voice, causing me to jump.

"Leaving so soon?" I heard a pleasant, masculine voice ask.

"Ah!" I turned around and pointed a shoe at the voice.

There in front of me was a tall, muscular figure wearing a black cloak standing on the rail of my balcony. His hood covered his face, and I didn't recognize his cheery voice. So, I have no clue who the guy is. He could likely be a thief a kidnapper or a... stalker.