Most of the games passed in a blur, as my interest for them had since waned. I tried my best to participate in the events with Arabella, but anytime I looked at her, I remembered seeing her in Victor's arms and it irked me in ways I could not explain. I had tried countless times to push that image out of my mind, yet it clung stubbornly to my thoughts like a curse I could not break free from.
Even now, as laughter and excited chatter filled the palace grounds, my mood remained dark.
The bonding solstice festival had always been one of the most anticipated celebrations in the kingdom. Music echoed through every corridor, servants rushed around carrying trays of food and wine, and nobles walked around in elaborate garments while pretending to enjoy one another's company.
Usually, I would have found amusement in the festivities, but this year everything felt dull.
Or perhaps it was because my attention kept drifting toward one particular person.
