An hour passed. Then another
Two full hours.
Downstairs, the king's messengers were still waiting.
Upstairs, Eliora was still seated by the window, stitching like time meant nothing.
The pattern was almost done now. Tiny silver threads forming flowers on the handkerchief. Each stitch was very neat, and intentional.
Ria and Luna had long stopped trying to rush her. They just stood nearby, watching her work, exchanging looks every now and then.
At some point, Luna had even sighed and leaned against the wall.
"She's really going to finish it," she whispered.
Ria shook her head. "The king's men have been downstairs for two hours."
Eliora didn't react. Not a word. Not even a word.
Then they heard a knock.
All three women looked toward the door.
"Come in," Eliora said.
The door opened and Maya stepped in, hands on her waist the moment she entered.
