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“The fair? Oh, yes! Yes, yes! I’ve never been to the fair! I want to see the games and the animals, and the people!” Her voice bubbled with enthusiasm as she clutched Yvette’s hand. “We’ll go together, won’t we? Please?”

Yvette laughed softly, squeezing Maisie’s hand.

“Of course, we’ll go together. You’ll get to see all of it, and we’ll have a wonderful time. But first, you have to get ready. We’ll leave in an hour.”

With that, Maisie dashed into her closet, her energy matching her excitement. Yvette couldn’t help but smile as she watched the little girl run to her room. A gentle warmth spread through her chest. She could almost feel the thrill Maisie was experiencing, the anticipation of a world outside the castle walls.

Yvette turned, walking into her own room to prepare for the fair.

There had been something different in the air ever since her kiss with Killian a few nights ago. An unease that lingered between them, though she tried to ignore it.

Today, she had decided she would not let that discomfort ruin her enjoyment of the day. She would immerse herself in the fair, in the festivities, and not let the awkwardness of the past few days overshadow the present.

As Daisy helped Yvette dress, she asked, “Your Grace, are you looking forward to the fair?”

Yvette smiled. “Yes I am. I want to see what the people of Braemore are like, and experience them for myself.”

Daisy nodded.

“The fair is quite the spectacle. There are always games for the children, the livestock show, and of course, the music. But there are a few things worth checking out, especially for someone in your position.”

Yvette tilted her head, intrigued. “What should I be looking for, then?”

“Well,” Daisy began thoughtfully, “there’s a booth where they sell local handicrafts, and the people from the town always set up a stall for fresh fruit and pies. You might enjoy that. They’re known for their apricot tarts, Your Grace.”

Yvette chuckled, taking mental notes. “That does sound delightful.”

“Then,” Daisy continued, “there’s the ring toss. It’s a simple game, but I know Lady Maisie loves a challenge. She’ll enjoy that. And don’t forget the animals, particularly the horses. The breeders often bring in their finest stock, and you might find yourself a new favorite.”

“I’ll be sure to check out the horses,” Yvette said with a smile. “Thank you, Daisy. That’s helpful.”

Daisy beamed, adjusting the final touches of Yvette’s dress. “I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time, Your Grace.”

The afternoon had arrived, and the fair was already in full swing by the time Yvette, Maisie, and Killian set out from the castle.

The golden light of the sun bathed the landscape as they walked, and Yvette couldn’t help but take in the view of Braemore. She had seen the town from the windows, but there was something different about being out among the people, walking the cobblestone streets with Maisie at her side and Killian beside her.

Maisie, of course, could barely keep still, skipping along ahead of them as she eagerly pointed out every colorful banner or person she recognized. She was the very picture of joy, her energy infectious. It was clear she had no care in the world except for the fair before her.

Yvette smiled as she glanced over at Killian, who had a bemused expression on his face as he watched his daughter. The three of them were together—something that, in the moment, felt right despite the tension that lingered between them.

As they continued walking, Yvette glanced up at Killian.

“Do you ever attend the fair, or did you when you were younger?”

Killian’s lips quirked into a small, almost rueful smile.

“I didn’t, actually. I didn’t grow up in Braemore. My father wasn’t fond of the fair, so it wasn’t something we ever attended. It was only when I became duke that I began attending, though I’d only go near the end, just to make an appearance and give a speech. Then I’d retreat to the house, or… elsewhere.”

Yvette raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised. “Elsewhere? A bit of mystery, are we?”

He gave her a sly glance.

“I never much cared for the hustle and bustle of it all. The fair’s never been a thing for me, but it seems Maisie has made it hers already.”

She chuckled.

“Well, it’s only her first fair. There’s plenty of time to enjoy it.” She paused, looking at him. “If it’s your first time going early, then we should all enjoy it together. The fair is for the people, after all.”