Chapter 55
She followed the maid through the halls in a daze, blinking hard against the brighter light of the main house after so many days in the dim holding room, her body aching with every step, hunger and exhaustion weighing heavily against her already fragile composure.
Her parents were waiting near the entrance to the main hall, expressions tight and disapproving despite the diplomatic necessity that had clearly forced their hand.
"You will behave," her mother said sharply, the moment Callie came within earshot, no warmth at all in her tone. "This is a privilege extended by an honored guest, not an excuse for you to cause any further trouble. Do you understand me?"
"Yes," Callie said quietly, keeping her eyes carefully lowered, old habit reasserting itself instinctively even thro
