That evening, Alice entered with a sealed letter. "From Thomas Manor, my princess"
Daphne accepted it with a small nod.
The handwriting was Emma's.
Breaking the seal, she read quickly.
Daphne,
I write to ask your forgiveness. My words yesterday were cruel, spoken from bitterness that should never have touched you. If you will permit it, I wish to come and apologize to you in person. Please, allow me to make amends.
–Emma
Daphne's fingers lingered on the page.
She was still folding it closed when the chamber door opened and Alaric walked in.
His long strides carried him straight to her, his arms pulling her close before she could even greet him.
"How are you, princess?"
She softened against him. "I'm fine, Ric. And you? How was your day?"
His chin brushed her hair as he answered. "Tiring. But better now."
He glanced down then, noticing the paper still in her hands.
His eyes narrowed slightly. "What were you reading?"
"A letter from Emma," she admitted softly.
