I bowed again, ignoring the sting beneath her tone. “Loyalty is exactly what drives me, Your Majesty.”
When I rose, I caught a little glimpse of satisfaction, like she was impressed with my answer. That was enough for me. I turned, hiding my fuming shoulders behind a polite smile as I left the chamber.
My heels clicked against the marble, each sound crisp and certain. The guards bowed again as I passed, and this time, I gave them a pleasant nod.
Let her hide behind her masks and let him protect her in secret. But I had planted the seed and soon, the Queen herself would turn against her.
By the time I stepped out into the sunlight, my smile had broadened. I felt victorious, a perfect start to a bright day.
***
Queen Mother’s POV
When the doors closed, I didn’t move for a long time. T
