The Dinner

IVORY'S POV

I strolled through the gardens, the warm sunlight casting a golden glow on the vibrant blooms. Claire walked beside me, her eyes shining with concern.

"Ivory, how are you holding up?" she asked, her voice gentle. "It's been two weeks since the attack. You must be feeling suffocated with all these guards around."

Two weeks had passed since the attack, and my life had become a blur of guards and gates, safety protocols and surveillance. I rarely saw Alexander, and when I did, he was distant, his mind preoccupied with the aftermath.

I miss him.

I really do.

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "I miss Alexander. I miss our talks. Our incessant bickering. I feel like I'm losing myself in all this chaos."

Claire's expression softened. "You're not alone, Ivory. We're all here for you. And Master Alexander...he's doing everything he can to keep you safe."

I nodded, feeling a lump form in my throat. "I know. But it's hard, Claire. I feel like I'm living in a prison."

Alexande