Chapter 24
When I opened my eyes, my throat felt dry.
Judging by the rhythmic pattering against the window, it seemed to be raining outside.
I thought about getting up to draw the curtains, but the dull ache in my limbs made even that feel like a task.
There wasn’t a maid waiting by the door today, either.
Ah... right.
Starting today, I was allowed to be alone while I slept.
I had questioned whether having someone watch me at all times was really the right way to "protect" me, but since that was a matter of the past now, I let the thought go with little effort.
Stretching slightly, I forced myself upright.
The messily rumpled blankets made it clear that I had tossed and turned in my sleep.
Stumbling to the side of the bed, I reached for the servant’s bell and gave it a pull.
It had been a long time since I had needed to summon anyone in the morning.
For so long, the moment I awoke, I had heard a maid’s voice greet me like the morning birdsong.