could have stolen from, Onyx? Seriously?”

She tilted her head to the side and cooed, completely undeterred by my harsh whisper. I nibbled on my fingernails as I stared at the note. What do I do? I know I should just throw it away and imagine I never saw it, but why can’t I? In truth, perhaps it would be wise to speak with Theo, if only for a little bit. I should desire to learn more about why high society might be dangerous for me, right? “I’m about to make a terrible decision, I fear,” I told my bird as I moved to the desk and grabbed a quill, scribbling my response on the same bit of crumpled paper.

Was it fate, or was it your own intervention? I’m more inclined to believe the latter.

“Here, Onyx,” I whispered. “Go get more berries.” Onyx cawed and flew out of the window with the paper in her grasp. What am I doing? I stared out of the window, watching as Onyx’s form disappeared and ignoring the ever-increasing sense of both dread and stupidity within me.

“Are you ready, Cat?” Isobel asked, and I practically leapt out of my skin.

“Yeah, let’s go,” I replied, grabbing my sword and walking toward the door. Isobel stared at me peculiarly, and I groaned internally the moment she arched her eyebrow. Why must she be so perceptive?

“Are you alright?”

“I’m fine. Let’s go,” I insisted.

“Don’t lie to me, Cat. What’s going on? Is this about the ball? I’ve noticed you’ve been oddly distant the past week.”

“Yes, but not for reasons you think,” I said, searching for comfort in the fact that was not a full lie. “I’ll tell you about it when I’m ready.”

Isobel pressed her lips into a thin line and studied my face for what felt like an eternity before she finally spoke. “Alright. Just promise me you won’t do anything too reckless.”

“I promise, I will try my best,” I replied with a half smile.

I’m in trouble.