Shatter Me Twice

VIII

RHEA
The past few days have been nothing short of enchanting, filled with a sense of anticipation that electrified the air around me. My days were consumed with preparation, learning, and immersing myself in the intricate ways of the noble dwellers. I wanted to be more than just a guest at the House of Nobles—I aimed to belong, even if just for a brief moment. During my time with Lady Iren, I absorbed the nuances of the household, using that knowledge to connect with the cooks and servants. My intentions were clear: I was here with a purpose, not just as another beautiful face. My beauty opened doors, but it was my humility that won hearts and earned me favor.

Today, everything I've worked towards culminates in one moment—my audience with His Royal Grace. A week has passed since I encountered the stranger with the dog, Iyan. His name lingers in my thoughts, a puzzle piece that doesn't quite fit, but remains ever-present. I wondered where he might have gone, if our paths would cross again, but fate seems to have charted a different course for each of us.

"Tighter, please," I directed the servants as they fastened the laces of my corset. They pulled, adjusted, and smoothed the fabric until it hugged my frame perfectly. After they finished, I stepped into my dress, feeling the weight of it settle on my shoulders like the responsibilities that awaited me. My shoes were already placed beside me, waiting just as my day—and perhaps my entire life—seemed to be laid out before me.

The ride to the palace was both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Anxiety fluttered in my chest, threatening to morph into a full-blown panic attack. But I contained it, reminding myself that the worst that could happen—though it wasn't truly the worst for me—was being sent back to Lady Iren. As we drew closer to the palace, my curiosity got the better of me, and I opened the carriage window, eager to catch a glimpse of the much-anticipated beauty of the palace grounds.

But then, my heart sank as the carriage suddenly veered off the expected path, taking an unforeseen turn away from the palace. The towering spires and intricate architecture I had longed to see began to fade into the distance, replaced by a sense of dread that crept up my spine. I quickly shut the window, feeling the panic rise again, and leaned towards the small rectangular opening designed for communicating with the carriage rider.

"Why are we riding away from the palace?" I asked, trying to keep the tremor from my voice.

"The meeting is to be held at the royal residence, a more private setting suited for an audience with His Royal Grace," the rider responded, his voice steady through the small opening.

It was well-known that the royal family chose not to reside within the palace walls. The palace, they believed, belonged to the people—a symbol of their unity and strength. Years ago, they had constructed their own residence, a place removed from the grandeur of the palace, where they could retreat from the public eye. Whenever matters of state demanded their attention, they would make the journey to the palace, conducting affairs as dutifully as workers attending to their daily tasks.

I settled back into the plush seat of the carriage, allowing myself to relax as the initial tension began to ease. My thoughts wandered to the upcoming meeting, curiosity and anticipation mingling in my mind. What would it be like to stand before the royal family in their own home, away from the formalities and public gaze of the palace? The idea both intrigued and unnerved me, but I resolved to meet the moment with the grace and composure that had brought me this far.

****

I now stood beside the towering double doors leading into the throne room, where the king and queen awaited, seated regally on their majestic thrones. A man had gone before me, speaking with them for what felt like an eternity. As I waited, I found myself captivated by the greenery and beauty that surrounded me—a testament to the splendor of the royal home. It was truly a wonder to behold, a residence that perfectly reflected the grace and grandeur of those who led our kingdom.