Chapter 84

WHEN I FELL INTO BED that night, with Audi already snoring away beside my bed, it hit me.

The ball was in just three days. We had weapons training tomorrow and then two days in which the castle became even more chaotic with preparations. On the eve of the second day was the ball, after which, we would start our normal life at the castle and fulfil Elena's expectations, as protectors of the Realm.

I could feel the beginning of a panic attack while images of what had happened in the last month bombarded me. I sat up, ripping the covers back.

Breathe. In out. In out.

I kept the chant up in my head, trying to keep quiet so I didn't disturb the others. Audrey sat upright a moment after I did and cuddled against my leg, her head on my thigh as she studied me with a concerned expression. I smiled down at her and stroked her head.

'Beautiful girl,' I cooed, feeling the anxiety lift a little. Her tail swished and she gave me little kisses on the nose then nibbled it, something she did o