Tuesday, January 31st

Dear Diary,

I went to the hill at midnight, just as I had promised. I waited longer than I ought to have, until the stars had shifted and the cold crept through my shoes. Lineya did not come.

I returned to the castle before dawn, my chest heavy with disappointment and foolish thoughts. I told myself it was nothing—people miss meetings every day. Still, I could not sleep.

This afternoon, a letter was slipped to me through the kitchens. I recognized the hand at once.

It read thus:

Pelta,

Forgive me for my absence. I wished with all my heart to meet you, but my family required my help on the farm, and I could not leave them in good conscience.

I feared you would think me unkind or forgetful, and that thought troubled me greatly.

If you would still have me, I shall come again when I am able.

—Lineya

I read it thrice before folding it away. I do not think she knows how relieved I am. Or how glad.

I shall write back. I must be careful with my words. I want to inform her of my platonic love for her and question the next moon when we shall meet… but how.