Vincent/Vaelthor~
We left the palace grounds through a small gate that led to the outer town—a lively cluster of cobblestone streets and pastel shops. The air was thick with the scent of fresh bread and something sweet I couldn't name. Children ran past us, their laughter echoing through the square. It was loud, chaotic, and strangely alive.
Katrina waved to almost everyone. "They're used to seeing me around," she said cheerfully. "Mom says I should mingle more with the people, not just sit in meetings and training. So I sneak out here a lot."
"You sneak out?" I raised an eyebrow. "You mean like you did last night?"
"Exactly," she said proudly. "Don't look so shocked. Even royalty needs adventure."
Adventure. I swallowed a smile. She had no idea what that word meant to me.
"Besides," she said with a playful glint in her eyes, "if I hadn't snuck out yesterday, how else would I have found such a gorgeous mate?"
