Adeline surveyed the expansive guest suite, a room far more grand than anything she had known, she would use until she became Gideon's official wife. She had just lowered her worn satchel onto a velvet chair when a knock echoed through the room.
"Miss, your dinner has arrived," a maid announced, entering with a heavy tray. She began arranging an array of steaming dishes onto the table, the portions far exceeding what Adeline usually consumed. "Prince Gideon has strictly instructed that not a single grain is to be left behind."
Adeline stared at the spread in disbelief. "But I don't have much of an appetite," she admitted. "I don't think I can finish all of this by myself."
"Miss, it is a specialized, healthy meal," the maid replied firmly, though not unkindly. "The Prince was very clear. He wants you to recover your strength quickly."
"I'll try, then," Adeline said, offering a faint, weary smile.
