One hundred and fifty six

It had been seven long days since Ragnar declared to Aloha that he would marry Daphne. Now, with just three days left until the wedding, the palace buzzed with whispers and gossip. Every maid seemed to be talking about it, and some were even cruel enough to mock Aloha. She found solace in staying indoors, as Ragnar had lifted the ban that made her his personal maid. He no longer sought her presence.

Aloha never imagined it would be this difficult. Today marked Jessica's departure from the palace. She had lingered, hoping James would have a change of heart and they could resolve their differences, but James had ensured they stayed far apart.

As was the custom for the palace maids, they gathered to bid farewell to anyone leaving for good. Aloha felt an inner conflict; she could have made excuses to avoid this gathering, given the constant mockery from the other maids. They believed she had used witchcraft to ensnare Ragnar ever since they learned he had spent a night in her room.

Amidst