Warm breeze rustled through the trees above as I walked through the palace's private gardens. My body ached slightly but I ignored it having been cooped up in my room for over a week after I had woken up.

My mind was on Tanyc all the time now since he came to see me. How could I tell him gently that there was no hope for a relationship? For one he was too old for me and another I wasn't ready to grow up just yet. I had a long life ahead of me thanks to my years of torture.

Every option I could think of would hurt him. I sighed as I leaned against a garden wall and looked out. It was a slow day in the kingdom. I was unsure what to do. I heard footsteps behind me and turned around.

"Shealyn…"

Hey guys I'm really sorry that I haven't updated in a long time. School is kicking my butt. And of course writer's block. I'm not giving up on this story, but I might need help from you guys for ideas of chapters.