Jinayah watched quietly as her father and sister made their exits. Anna was lying; for what reason she did not know. She knew Sulhana would see through it just as fast, but hopefully the princes would not. It was just a touch rude for the crown princess to break a promise so easily. Maybe Anna wasn’t feeling well. Or maybe she just wanted some peace and quiet before the ball.

While part of her wanted to join her eldest sister in the library, away from prying eyes, Jin felt that she had to do something to appease what could be an awkward situation. “Prince Erick. I was actually planning on doing some riding myself, this afternoon. Since you may be unoccupied, I would be honored if you would join me.” Her new armor needed some breaking in, and her horse would need some time to get used to the new weight. Plus, she had caught the prince peeking out of the corner of her eye. He might be brave enough to ask questions instead of just talk behind her back.

She sipped at her fruit juice, addressing the rest of the table. “I hope everyone had a restful night, after my dear sister’s party?”