Chapter 9 - Claimed

Selene

A clock chimes in the distance, and I suck in a deep breath, heavy with anticipation.

It's evening now, and for the first time in maybe forever, I experienced a full day without having to attend to chores or go on an errand.

It's strange and new, and I have to admit that there were times that I was tempted to go out and find something to do, just so that my hands wouldn't be so still.

A gentle knock comes on my door. Something tells me that it's Letitia again.

She opens the door and peers in. "Selene, you have to move now."

I rise from the bed and dust imaginary dirt off my dress. Today's style is made of two distinct clothing pieces—a silk gown with thin straps and frilled ends, and a thick woolen sweater worn over it. I had also been given another pair of soft, warm shoes.

"Do I have to?" I ask her, even though I already know the answer.

She nods. "It's the King's orders. Going against him is akin to treason."

I clenched my trembling hands into small fists and followed her o