Grace hesitated. "What kind of person is she?"
A faint smile touched the king's lips for the first time that evening. "You won't have a problem with her. She's… unlike her mother. Fierce, but fair. Proud, but not cruel."
Grace nodded slowly, her mind spinning with all she'd heard. This kingdom and by extension, this family, was far more broken than it appeared. Yet, she didn't feel as aversed as she was to them like before.
The king rose from his seat. "You've earned your rest. Thank you for staying with him. And for giving him something none of us could."
Jace stood as well, resting a hand lightly on Grace's shoulder. She looked up at him. There was no bitterness in his eyes—only concern, and something deeper as he reached out a hand to help Grace to her feet.
The king offered a small bow of farewell before retreating down the corridor.
