Verity's POV

The garden was my favorite place in the castle.

Not the grand courtyard with its marble fountains and perfectly trimmed hedges—that was too formal and felt watched. But this place, tucked away behind the eastern wing, was different. Wildflowers grew in chaotic bursts of color between the stone pathways. Ivy climbed the walls unchecked. Ancient trees spread their branches overhead, creating pockets of shade that felt like secrets.

It was the only place that felt like ...