Chapter 35. Have No Choice

AURELIA

Night fell quickly, much to my dissatisfaction. Isn’t time supposed to drag on when you’re miserable? But for me, it always seemed to race by. From the distance, I could hear the rhythmic pounding of drums, signaling the festival had already begun.

I glanced toward the door, silently willing Sigrid to appear, and as if on cue, a soft knock echoed. Before I could answer, she walked in, followed by several other maids, each carrying either a garment or an ornament.

They bowed briefly, placing the items carefully on the bamboo bed before retreating wordlessly. Another group entered next, bringing with them a large wooden basin, jugs of water, and a jar of lye solution for the bath. Once they had set everything in place, they, too, vanished, leaving only Sigrid and me in the room.

“Undress, my lady. I’ll assist you with your bath,” Sigrid said quietly, avoiding my gaze. I complied, and though her hands worked quickly, she never once looked me in the eye.