บท 42: Honor

He didn't return. 

I waited for him and he didn't return and now it was time for me to get ready for the jousting tournament. Part of me didn't want to go, I wanted to stay here and hope that he would find me. But, I knew that he was participating. I wondered if I stayed here, loyally, he would come to find me. 

Why was he so mad? Had he finally succumbed to the rumors? Did he think that I was seducing Count Belsky? I tried to wrack my brain as the maids polished my skin, brushed my hair, and dressed me. I could barely think straight. I felt as though I was dizzy with my own thoughts. I was walking in the hallway, getting ready to go to the carriage but I was stopped. 

"Irene." 

"Your Highness." 

"Essen," he corrected. There was a smile on his face as I curtsied, not looking at him. I still had my handkerchief in my hand. It was wrapped tightly. I could feel him approaching but I kept my gaze on the ground.