Hwayeong let out a short, disbelieving laugh and ran a hand over her face.
And for some reason, the memory of a very young Hwajin—flailing dramatically on a market floor because she didn’t like her hairpin—flashed across her mind.
「Mother, there’s something wrong with her.」
Right now, Sinyeong didn’t seem much better.
Sure, she had wanted to speak with him herself. But she figured she’d wait until morning.
Clearly, that wasn’t His Highness’s plan.
She was tired—had barely slept the night before—but what choice did she have?
Besides, she still hadn’t asked about that ridiculous letter of his. And since he’d gone to the trouble of sneaking out at this hour...
With a sigh of surrender, Hwayeong threw on a long robe and followed the court lady out.
The early dawn breeze was crisp and clear as they crossed the courtyard.
When they reached a large tree near the back entrance of the consorts’ quarters, the court lady spoke in a hushed tone.
“He’s waiting behind that tree.”
