Chapter Thirty-six

When we arrived at the palace that evening, I felt better to an extent. I don't know why. Perhaps, because I had spared the goddess another moment of hope by unburdening my heart to her at the temple, or because of the presence of Ashton.

Albeit, by the time I entered our chamber, I fell on the lounge by the hearth and gobbled the spring water shared by the priest, while I stared into the crackling fire blankly.

There was a slight knock and when I answered, looking back, Kora entered, bearing a bundle in her hand.

"Kora?" I twisted fully, with my brows arched. I didn't know she did laundry on Thursdays too. She said it was only on Fridays, unless on emergencies which were rare. "What's that?"

"The new guy," She handed the bundle to me. "He said I should give it to you."

I was even more astounded. "Tyler?"

"Yes." She shifted on her feet, her hands in front of her as she, like I observed the package. I unfolded it gradually to reveal a small box inside the bundle which I further unboxe