Chapter 117

HAZEL

I sit in the car, feeling the rumble of the engine beneath me. The guards surround me, their faces tense and alert. The sun is just rising, casting long shadows across the road as we leave the palace behind. I can't help but feel a heavy sadness in my chest. I don't want to leave, but I know I must.

I look out the window, watching the familiar landscape pass by. The fields, the trees, the little stream that runs through our kingdom, all of it looks so peaceful. But I know it's just an illusion. Danger lurks everywhere now.

One of the guards, a young man named Tom, tries to make small talk.

"We'll be there soon, Your Highness. The safe house is very secure."

I nod, not really in the mood to chat.

"Thanks, Tom. I just... I wish it didn't have to be this way."

He gives me a sympathetic smile.

“We all do, ma'am. But your safety is the most important thing right now."

I sigh and look down at my hands resting on my belly. I can feel the baby moving, a little re