Page 27 of Villainess's Redemption
I turned to face him, my smile now more of a grimace. “Good morning, Prince Anderic,” I said, my voice dripping with sugary sweetness. “How thoughtless of me to overlook your illustrious presence. I do hope you’ll find it in your heart to forgive me.”
Anderic’s eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of amusement dancing in their depths. He knew I was full of it. Well, whatever.
“Of course, Lady Stormbourne. Your oversight is graciously pardoned,” he said as he took a sip of his tea.
Yes, tea. I need tea.
King Arnald let out another deep belly laugh as if our conversation was nothing but a comedy show. “You must for Anderic, Ilyana. He was just joking. Tell me, did you sleep well? After all, it’s a new environment for you.”
“Yes, your majest—”
He cleared his throat. “—Father.”
Anderic’s eyebrows shot up as he looked between me and his father.See? This is exactly why I didn’t want to call him father. Why is the king so hell-bent on being ‘family’ now?
“Well, that’s a development I didn’t see coming.”
“Why not?” It left my mouth even before I could process what was going on.
Tea, I need tea.
“She’s family now. I’ve told Noah too many times to call me father but heinsistson sticking to you majesty,” King Arnald sighed as if that was the worst tragedy that happened to him.
Noah kept sipping his tea.Good choice.
Laurel, bless her heart finally poured me a cup of tea.
As we sat down to eat, I found myself engaged in a surprisingly pleasant conversation with Queen Felicia. She asked about my plans for the day, my thoughts on court fashion, and even my opinions on some of the recent changes in the palace gardens.
“I must say, Ilyana,” the Queen said, her voice warm and approving, “I’m impressed by your knowledge of horticulture.”Of course, I need to know that to be a farmer.“Perhaps you’d like to join me in overseeing some of the new plantings next week?”
I smiled, genuinely pleased. “I would be honored, Your Majesty.”
I could practically feel the waves of shock radiating from Noah and Anderic. Their heads swiveled between the Queen and me like they were watching a particularly intense croquet match. Especially Anderic looked more confused to see his mother change overnight.
Ha! Take that princeling.
Anderic coughed, nearly choking on his tea. “Mother, are you feeling quite well?”
The Queen turned to her son, her eyebrow raised. “Perfectly well, thank you, Anderic. Why do you ask?”
“No reason,” he muttered, shooting me a suspicious glance.
Queen Felicia turned to me, her eyes twinkling with genuine warmth. “Ilyana, I must thank you. Your insights were invaluable in thwarting those dreadful pirates. Their den was indeed on one of the islands you mentioned.”
Bowe’s Island.
I blinked, my teacup frozen halfway to my lips. They were already thwarted? When did that happen? And more importantly, how did I not know about it? My confusion must have shown on my face because the Queen quickly added.
“Oh, it hasn’t been announced to the public yet. But I wanted to express my gratitude before the official proclamation.”
King Arnald’s booming voice joined in. “Indeed! Your knowledge has saved countless lives and protected our trade routes. Name your reward, child. Anything within reason, of course.”
Queen Felicia also nodded. “Yes, you deserve a reward.”
I set my cup down, buying time to think. A reward? For information, I already knew. But since everyone was watching, I didn’t want to be seen as greedy.
“That’s very kind, Your Majesties, but I couldn’t possibly—”
