Adam noticed the moment of softness between the prince and his horse. He was kinder to the animal than he was to the servants.

Staring back at him, Adam curled his toes into the wet sand.

He ought to have gone home. He had chores to do. He'd neglected to show up entirely for his evening's shift at the wagonwright's. He'd never expected his visit to the palace to last the entire day.

Things are so easy for the prince, and he has so little fear of consequences. Adam's heart burns with jealousy and longing.