Page 58 of Villainess's Redemption
I opened my mouth to respond, but how could I possibly explain? So, I just ignored her question and kept walking. Laurel also fell silent as she walked behind me.
I thought of Rosalind, of how easily she seemed to captivate everyone around her. Even Anderic wasn’t immune to her charms in my past life. So why was he paying so much attention to me now?
Don’t be a fool,I chided myself.He’s probably just trying to keep a closer eye on you. You’re still a threat in his eyes.
But a small, traitorous part of me couldn’t help but hope that maybe, just maybe, things could be different this time around.
We reached my chambers, and I dismissed Laurel for the evening. As soon as the door closed behind her, I leaned against it, letting out a long, shaky breath.
I crossed to the vanity, studying my reflection in the mirror. The woman staring back at me looked… different. Softer, somehow. More vulnerable. I didn’t like it.
Shaking my head, I began to prepare for bed. I needed to be sharp, and focused for tomorrow.
As I slipped under the silk sheets, my mind drifted back to Anderic. The feel of his calloused fingers on my skin, the intensity in his eyes as he kissed my hand. I groaned, burying my face in the pillow.
This is ridiculous,I thought.You’re acting like some lovesick fool. Get it together, Ilyana. This is not your first time dealing with these emotions.
Chapter 16
A small gathering with the queen. And Rosalind, to celebrate her return. How delightful.
Just thinking about it is making my skin crawl.
The intimate gathering in Queen Felicia’s private solar felt stifling despite the gentle breeze wafting through the open windows. Plush velvet settees in deep burgundy formed a cozy circle around a low table laden with delicate pastries and steaming tea service. The room itself was a study in understated elegance - cream walls adorned with pastoral tapestries, ornate gold sconces casting warm light.
I settled into my assigned seat, painfully aware that I was placed directly across from Rosalind. The golden child herself looked radiant in a powder blue gown, her chestnut curls artfully arranged. The queen had spared no expense in welcoming her lost lamb home.
Sounds like you’re jealous.A voice whispered in my mind. I gritted my teeth.
Absolutely not!
“Ilyana, you seem quiet today.” Queen Felicia’s melodic voice carried an edge beneath its sweetness. Even Lady Amelia wasthrowing daggers at me with her eyes.Oh no. “Are you not pleased to celebrate Lady Rosalind’s return?”
I forced my lips into the perfect courtier’s smile. “Your Majesty is too kind to include me. I’m simply overwhelmed with joy at this happy reunion.”
Rosalind’s answering smile could have curdled milk. “Indeed. Though some reunions are more welcome than others.”
“Ladies,” Lady Seraphina cut in, “you simply must try these lemon tarts. The kitchen has outdone themselves.”
I side-eyed the tart.Trying to charm Her Majesty by playing the gentle lady, are we?
I accepted a tart, using the moment to gather my thoughts. The other ladies present - Seraphina, Penelope, and a few other ladies close to Queen Felicia - watched our exchange like vultures eyeing wounded prey. One wrong move and they’d swoop in for the kill.
“I hear you’ve been quite busy with charitable works, Lady Rosalind,” I offered carefully. “The queen speaks highly of your dedication to the less fortunate.”
“Unlike some, I believe that nobility comes with responsibility, not just privilege.” Rosalind’s words dripped honey-coated venom. I gritted my teeth in annoyance. It wasn’t like I could say anything to counteract the jab.
I didn’t know what was wrong with me. Why was I letting her jabs irritate me this much?
Calm down, Ilyana. This isn’t like you.
The queen’s eyes sparkled with barely concealed amusement. “Which is precisely why I’ve decided Lady Rosalind will oversee the next charity project in the future. With your assistance, of course, Ilyana.”
I nearly choked on my tea. Working together? The woman who’d rather see me drawn and quartered than share breathing space?
“What a generous suggestion, Your Majesty,” I dabbed my lips with a napkin. “Though I wouldn’t want to impose on Lady Rosalind’s vision.”
“Nonsense.” Queen Felicia’s tone brooked no argument. “I insist. After all, what better way to demonstrate the spirit of forgiveness and cooperation? Don’t you agree Rosalind?”
