Chapter 125
Annalise
The palace was alive with motion. From the moment the first rays of sunlight broke over the horizon, servants scurried through the halls, their hurried footsteps echoing off the marble floors. Florists arranged massive bouquets of red and gold roses, the kingdom’s royal colors, while banners embroidered with the royal crest were draped along the walls. The kitchens were bustling with clattering dishes and the rich aroma of roasted meats, honeyed pastries, and spiced wine filled the air.
It was Coronation Day.
And I was nervous beyond belief.
The maids arrived at dawn—ten of them, each moving with perfect precision as they worked to prepare me. I sat stiffly in front of the grand mirror as they flitted around me, smoothing luxurious creams onto my skin, weaving gol
