Page 184 of Malicent
“Yes, Misses!” he chirps. With a flutter of his wings, his form dissolves into a cascade of shadows, slipping beneath the covers until they fall flat again.
When hunger finally pries me from my bed, I venture into the hall. It’s a hectic day today. Servants race past with arms overloaded with food and decorations. I fall into step behind them, curious, letting their path guide me to the ballroom.
Inside, the space is even gaudier than usual, dripping in gold, with new tables being uniformly arranged. I immediately lose interest and turn away, indifferent to whatever event is being prepared.
“Millicent!”
Felix’s voice cracks down the corridor like a whip, accompanied by frantic waving as he bounds toward me like a mad man.
I sigh and raise a hand in return, knowing if I don’t, he’ll continue to flail like a toddler.
“Felix.”
He grins. “Have you eaten since you woke up? I expected you to look awful, but here you are! Honestly, death suits you.”
“I’m hunting for food now.” I yawn, still not fully free of the heavy pull of stasis.
“Perfect. Lunch together, then.”
“I was planning to grab something and return to my chamber, actually.” I attempt to brush him off, hoping he leaves me to my peace. Of course he doesn’t.
“It’s outside! There’s wine, sun…and gossip! The picnic is already set. Come now.”
Felix grabs my hand and tugs me down the corridor, talking the entire way about some ridiculous ball. Apparently, a new duke is being named and this celebration is to be held in his honor.
We arrive at a sprawling orange plaid blanket spread across the grass. He drops down and yanks me with him.
“Watch it,” I snap as my ass hits the ground.
He ignores me, already reaching for the wine nestled beside the basket.
“Sorry, my little snowflake,” he teases, his cheeks rounding with a devilish grin.
“You are hardly ever sorry,” I retort, snatching the bottle from his hands.
“Please, we’re both royals. It comes with the territory.” He rolls his eyes, opening the basket and pulling out two sandwiches. He passes me one. Between us, he sets a bundle of ripe strawberries.
I keep busy, pouring our wine as he lays out the food.
“So, I heard you went full psycho bitch,” he says, leaning back on his elbows and wiggling his eyebrows at me.
“I was attacked and collared,” I mutter. “Blame Cage.”
“Another royal trait we share—blame shifting!”
He nearly chokes on the bite he takes when I kick him.
“If any of you bastards collar me again…” The air around me pulses. My magic stirs, and I know my eyes have begun to glow.
He holds up both hands in mock surrender. “Lesson learned. Now have some wine before you blow up again. I’m not dealing with Cage and Kalix’s problems. And I’m far too pretty to be collateral damage.”
I allow a smile. Good.I hope they’re worn down.
The silence stretches, but not uncomfortably. By the time I finish my sandwich and reach for the strawberries, my stomach has stopped complaining.
“Do you want to talk about it?” Felix asks gently.
I keep my gaze on the leaves dancing overhead, unwilling to meet his eyes.
