Time passed, as it always does.
The court convinced itself the curse was coincidence. So did I—because the alternative was unbearable. I smiled again. I attended dances. I pretended my heart was not afraid.
That was when Sir Rowan was assigned to me.
He was steady. Loyal. Brave in quiet ways. He walked beside me without speaking unless spoken to, and somehow that made me feel safe.
I should have pushed him away.
Instead, I let him stay.