I gazed out at the world beyond the window, seeing it as if for the first time. Everything appeared sharper, more vibrant, as though the colors had deepened and the light had become more intense. The view was instantly familiar—the central fountain and the lush garden of the Palace. But this perspective was new to me. When I lived in the east wing, I hadn’t been able to see this. That could only mean one thing: I had been moved to the main building.

The realization was bittersweet. ...