I went to my study and sat there in the dark, staring at the gem Delilah had given me that morning. It glowed faintly in the lamplight, pure, valuable, flawless.
Delilah’s voice still rang in my ears: “She’s dangerous. She’ll ruin the King again if we don’t stop her.”
I had dismissed her then. But tonight, I wasn’t so sure. That woman had already stolen too much. She had started with Vincent’s peace, the kingdom’s stability, and now my granddaughter’s trust. I wouldn’t let her take anything else.
I rose, straightened my shawl, and told the steward, “Summon His Majesty. I will see him now.”
He hesitated. “The King is in council—”
“I said now.”
Vincent’s study smelled of ink and night air. He looked up when I entered, his eyes immediately wary. “Mother.”
I closed the door behind me. “
