Maria stood by the door, her body tense, her mind racing. She wiped her face with the back of her palm, surprised to find tears she hadn't even realized had fallen. She quickly composed herself just as a maid, still groggy from sleep, approached.
"I wanted to speak with Mara, but it seems she's asleep," Maria whispered, forcing a tight smile.
The maid studied her for a moment, skepticism flickering in her eyes. She wasn't naïve enough to fully believe Maria's excuse, but she couldn't quite place what exactly was off.
"Alright, Miss Maria," the maid finally said. "Get some rest."
She lingered for a moment, watching Maria, making sure she left first before turning away.
Back in her room, Maria paced restlessly, her mind an unrelenting storm. Every thought, every emotion, every unspoken desire pulled her in one direction—toward Ethan.
It wasn't just want; it was need. It was as if something beyond her control was drawing her to him.
