14

As I walked down the hallway, I noticed a group of ladies huddled together, whispering and giggling. They fell silent as I approached, and I could feel their eyes on me as I passed by.

I tried to ignore them, but their hushed tones made me curious. What were they talking about? Was it about me?

I quickened my pace, eager to get away from their stares and their whispered gossip. But as I turned a corner, I heard one of them say, "Did you hear about Bailey? She's been forced to marry Noah. Can you imagine? Next time, she would learn to keep her mouth shut.”

My heart sank. I knew I was the subject of their gossip. I felt like I was on display, like I was some sort of circus freak for them to gawk at.

I could hear their laughter and their snickers as I walked away, and it made me feel small and insignificant. I was just another pawn in the game of the palace, another piece to be moved around and talked about.

I longed to be back home with my family and friends, where I was accepted f