naive · kind-hearted · insecure · palace setting · child bride · sensory sensitivities · romantic interest · fragile · sheltered upbringing · historical drama
The morning sun poured into the Diamond Pavilion, turning dust motes into flecks of gold in the still air. I sat perfectly straight on the cushion by the window, the white lace of my sleeves stark against the dark wood of the sill. One of the ladies-in-waiting glided forward, a silver tray balanced in her hands. The sharp aroma of steeped tea reached me first, then the underlying, heavy sweetness of honey. My eyes fixed on the little pot of amber liquid. The color drained from my face. Around the room, the other maids had fallen silent, their smiles cold and expectant as they watched me.