Lucrezia swallowed.
She had to get away from everyone.
She turned at the next intersection, following a narrower passage that led towards the northern wing. She had no particular destination in mind. She barely remembered the arrangement of the castle beyond the rooms she frequented, and at that moment, she had neither the patience nor the clarity to care.
She only wanted the noise to stop.
A door opened ahead, and Lucrezia flinched.
The sound struck her with the force of a sudden blow, and she turned sharply towards it.
A young servant emerged carrying a silver tray. She was yawning, her attention fixed on the cups arranged upon it, and she failed to notice Lucrezia until she was almost upon her.
"My lady!"
The girl jerked to a halt. One of the cups rattled against the tray as she tried to regain her stance.
Lucrezia stared at her. She could hear the servant's heart leap.
