“You appear even thinner now,” Queen Juneth remarks with a sharp glare. I clench my teeth to stop myself from mentioning that I’ve actually gained a bit of weight.

“Sit.” Her voice snaps. “You’re late.”

“I apologize,” I reply, trying to keep my tone neutral. “Perhaps Prince Jorlan gave me the wrong time.”

“The prince would never do such a thing! Foolish girl.”

Her words hit like an unexpected slap, but I’m ...