Thomas gripped the reins a little tighter than he needed to as he rode to the castle. He was going back alone, contrary to his orders to bring Rose back to the castle at sundown.
That way they would arrive during dinner, and he would be able to get her to her room without any accident, unlike this morning. But that wasn't happening, and Thomas was now riding back to the castle alone.
He urged the horse to go faster. He wanted to get to the castle before dinner began so he could speak to the crown prince. Thomas dreaded this conversation, but Rose had pleaded with him with fear in her eyes, and he understood her reasoning. It was the only reason he would attempt something so risky.
He leaned forward on the horse as it sped up the hills that led to the castle. He was let into the castle compound almost immediately, only stopping so they could unlock the gates and let him in.
