The Leering Eyes

"Save up your energy for tomorrow and rest up. It is not mandatory for you to attend the state dinner tonight," Jerrick said, his expression turning serious.

"I don't have to?" Jessamyn pondered aloud, her mind weighing the option.

The thought of mingling with other nobles and the delegates from Altania at the state dinner was far from appealing. The formalities and pretenses of such gatherings often left her weary.

"Wait, Isadora and Cordelia are attending. I should too," she said, sitting up with determination.

As the future consort of the crown prince, Cordelia had a duty to attend the state dinner. Jessamyn knew Cordelia would rather avoid it, having noticed the lecherous glances from the men of Altania. Tales of their barbaric ways had made many nobles hesitant to bring their wives and unwed daughters.