#Chapter 56: Unexpected Return

Evelyn I waited until the palace had quieted to a whisper. And even then, I waited a little longer, making sure the coast was clear. The moon was already beginning its descent in the sky, but it was full and ripe that evening, its glow lighting my way as I stepped out into the night. My boots made no sound on the stone as I crept down the side corridor, heart thundering in my ears in a constant roar. As I passed guards and sentries, I held my breath, moving as silently as I could manage and forcing a smile so I did not draw attention to myself. To them, I hoped it appeared like just another late-night walker, another restless woman wandering the halls. Every time I continued on, I hoped that they viewed me as nothing worth stopping and investigating. I was making great progress, hurrying by without being stopped or questioned. The night was cool and quiet, and for a long time, I didn’t even hear anyone up and moving about. But then his voice cut through the air, making