The Past 18:
Amelie paced restlessly in her room, trying to force herself to wait for Draven's return, all the while constantly checking the clock. It was already late evening. The time the witch had given her to meet in the backyard, sharp five o'clock, was closely approaching.
"Amelie," Irene's soft voice came from outside as the door opened. She turned around and saw her mother standing in the doorway.
"Why do you look so worried, dear?" Irene asked, observing her daughter's frantic state. "We have packed all the bags now. The carriage is waiting for us outside. Shall we go?"
"Mother, I'll come later with Gabriel," Amelie suggested, needing her parents out of the way. "Why don't you and Father leave first?"
"What? Why would we leave without you?" Irene questioned, confused by the sudden change of plan. "And you'll see Prince Gabriel once we arrive safely at the palace," she reminded her.
