The following morning, the palace buzzed faintly with preparations for the empress' long-awaited luncheon.
Katherine had kindly postponed it until Daphne was well again, and now that her strength had returned, Daphne was determined to attend.
Alice and the maids fluttered around her chamber, arranging her gown and hair when the door opened.
Alaric stepped in, still in his dark uniform from the morning's work.
He recently made it a habit to check on her throughout the day.
His eyes landed on her instantly, and his stride slowed.
She was glowing, her skin was radiant, her eyes bright, the sickness of the past weeks washed away.
He dismissed the maids with a low command. "Leave us."
They bowed quickly and slipped out, leaving the chamber.
"Your beauty leaves me speechless every time, my love."
His gaze lingered on her gown, then lifted to her face. "Where are you preparing to go?"
