*******
The atmosphere in the palace had been tense after the meeting. Esme walked back to her quarters, unable to get some sleep even after taking a short stroll through the quiet halls of the palace.
She couldn't stop thinking about Leonardo and Cora– if they were safe, about their situation, about Acheron's condition, and Donovan's strange behavior.
She was lost in her thoughts that she didn't notice the small table until her hip bumped into it, sending the jug wobbling dangerously. Her reflexes kicked just in time, and she caught it before it could crash to the floor.
"That was close."
She exhaled in relief and carefully set the jug back in place. She mentally scolded herself to be more mindful of where she was going to avoid this mistake.
Just as she turned the corner, another figure appeared from the opposite direction, and they collided.
A firm hand shot out, catching her by the waist before she could stumble.
"Careful there," he said, his voice low and steady.
