“The Prince,” I balked. “I… You see… He… Josie, listen. What I tell you, you must contain it to this room,” I ordered.
“Of course,” she said.
“Itcannotleave. Not ever.”
“And it shall not leave. Not bymylips,” she said.
“He… He has someone else in mind…If you gather?” I said. I watched the boys converse. I watched them shove each other playfully. “He has another woman. A woman who is not me. It’s Miss Agatha.”
“…You’re speaking of the Prince?” she asked.
“What do you mean? Who else would I be speaking of?”
Josie blinked a couple of times. “Mr. Evergreen, of course.”
“Wait. Aren’t you surprised? His Highness is having an affair,” I said.
“I’m very sorry.”
“You’re sorry, but you knew?” I asked.
She pinned another piece.
“Is everyone gossiping?” I asked.
“No. They’re not gossiping,” she said.
“But you do know? How?”
“Hmm.” She breathed cooly. “If I answer, you must promise he won’t face consequence.”
“He? Who’s he? Who told you?” I asked. “Mr. Evergreen?”
She looked confused. “I don’t talk to Mr. Evergreen, but I simply cannot tell you who told me unless you promise me his safety.”
“Fine. Yes. I promise. Your rat won’t face consequence,” I said. “Now tell me. Who told you about the Prince?”
“Ser Willoughby,” she said.
I frowned. “I’m humiliated.”
She shook her head. “No. No, don’t be humiliated, miss. This sort of thing happens to the best of us.”
“How many people has he told?” I asked.
“Has he…?” She turned her head. “You think Daniel isspreadingrumors?”
“Well, he told you, didn’t he?” I asked.
Josie cocked a smile.
“What?”
“I would not fear that man’s tongue if I were you,” she said.
“And why not?”
She rolled her eyes. “He’s not spreading anything. He’s remarkably devoted to your well-being, and he didn’t even want to tell me, I just…I convinced him to. As is my ability.”
