Maelis’s POV
I smoothed my dress down one last time, inspecting myself in the full-length mirror. The midnight-blue gown fitted in all the right places, the little shimmer catching the light as I tilted my head. Flawless…. From the perfectly curled hair cascading over my shoulder to the diamond studs glinting at my ears.
“Maelis, where are you going this late?” Mother’s voice floated from the hallway, sharp with suspicion.
I pasted on my sweetest smile and cracked the door just enough so she couldn’t scrutinize me fully. “Just out for a little fresh air, Mom. I’ve been cooped up here all week. You always say I should socialize more, didn’t you?”
There was a pause. Then, a reluctant sigh. “Don’t stay out too long. It’s not proper.”
“Of course not.” I shut the door softly before she cou
