Beatrice woke up feeling like she had lost a fight in her sleep.
Not physically, no. She had woken up in worse states before. But mentally? Emotionally? She felt like someone had reached into her mind, shaken it around, and left her to deal with the mess.
All because she had been stupid enough to dwell on the past.
She groaned, rubbing her temples as she sat up. The memories from last night still clung to her like an annoying second skin. The writing. The thoughts. The fact that she had once again fallen into the trap of remembering too much.
Her mood was already souring, and she hadn't even stepped out of bed yet.
Lily entered, cheerful as ever, setting down a tray.
"Good morning, my lady."
Beatrice squinted at her. "Is it?"
Lily paused. "…Should I come back later?"
Beatrice sighed, waving a hand. "No, no. I'll survive."
Lily gave her a wary glance but wisely didn't comment.
The rest of the morning didn't improve things.
