We moved swiftly through the halls, our footsteps hushed against the polished marble floor. The prince's grip on my hand remained firm, his pace fast but careful, always checking to make sure I was still beside him.
After several turns and one near encounter with a patrolling maid, we reached his chamber door. He opened it just enough for us to slip through, then quietly shut it behind us with a soft click. The moment we were inside, he turned to me and gently placed his index finger against his lips.
"Shhh…" he whispered. "Some of the maids have been saying up late these past few nights just in case you came back. They are being quietly surveying the halls."
I blinked, surprised. They were… watching for me?
