For a brief, alarming moment, Sohwa wondered if it was some sort of spellbook—a manual for curses or charms—but when she leaned closer to read the cover, it turned out to be perfectly mundane.
It was that infamous Guidebook for Crown Princess Candidates.
Ever since she’d become too busy running around with Sinyeong, Hwayeong hadn’t so much as touched that book.
Watching her study it now, despite already having secured her place in the palace, Sohwa couldn’t help tilting her head in confusion.
Before she could ask, Hwayeong slowly nodded, closed the book, and turned toward her.
“You’ve worked hard today.”
“Pardon?”
“You should rest now.”
The moon was already high—it was clearly time for bed.
Still, after a brief hesitation, Sohwa asked one last question, as if to confirm.
“Are you certain everything will be resolved tonight?”
“Of course.”
Her calm assurance—that one way or another, the matter would reach its end before dawn—made Sohwa lower her head in relief.
