REYLA
Iwoke to knocking, the rhythmic tapping on the hallway door pulling me from a restless sleep. Memories of the night before flooded me, but I pushed the thoughts away. I couldn't change what happened with Lore, but I could control my actions from here on out.
“My lady?” Lord Briscalar's voice filtered through the door, followed by a soft clearing of his throat. “We'll be making port soon. Would you care to eat something before we disembark? I've taken the liberty of bringing a tray.”
Farris, who’d curled up at the foot of my bed during the night, lifted his head. His ears perked up, and he released a throaty yawn before settling back down with a sigh.
Sitting, I stroked his soft fur.
“You can enter. I'll be out in a moment,” I called, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside me.
Rising from the bed, I padded into the bathing area, where Isplashed cold water on my face, the chill helping to clear the fog of sleep. I met my gaze in the mirror, my eyes reflecting a mix of determination and regret.
“Let it go. He won't bring it up, that's for sure, and neither will you,” I told myself, adding a pert nod to solidify it.
He'd better not bring it up.
I bathed, the scent of lavender and rosemary filling the air while I washed away what was left of the previous night. Lord Briscalar moved around in the adjoining room, humming a tune under his breath.
“I've laid out a gown for you on the bed, my lady,” he said near the door. “Once you've dressed, please let me know, and I'll assist you with your hair. I'll be in the sitting area, waiting.”
“I won't be long.”
After drying off and slipping into a soft robe, I stepped into the bedroom. The gown he'd chosen for me was a vision of deep emerald green, the color of Merrick's eyes. Fortuitous? I was going to think so. Elegant, yet practical, it had capped sleeves and a daring, low neckline that suggested regal grace without being too sexy.
I slipped the dress over my head, the fabric cascading down my body and pooling at my feet.
“I'm ready,” I announced, my voice echoing through the suite.
The door to the adjoining room opened, and Lord Briscalar bustled in. He fastened the gown at my back and urged me over to the vanity, where he arranged my hair on the top of my head, leaving tendrils to trail across my shoulders.
“These were sent for you to wear.” He pulled a case from hispocket and opened it, revealing a sparkling green necklace and matching earrings.
“Are they real?” I asked with a gasp.
He cocked his fist on his hip, pretending to scowl. “Would our queen wear something fake?”
“Probably not.” Though I had. All the time.
He secured the gorgeous necklace in the back while I put on the earrings. Standing to the side, he admired my image in the mirror.
“Delightful,” he breathed. “Simply delightful.”
“Thank you. For helping me look pretty for my introduction to Evergorne Court and for being a friend.”
“I couldn't do anything less, my lady.”
Of course he could, but I turned and patted his arm.
He beamed and swept his hand toward the sitting room. “Your repast awaits. I took the liberty of selecting things you can eat without worry.”
To avoid me spilling down the front of my gown, no doubt. I didn’t huff about it; the fates knew I’d made a mess of my clothing more than once.
Today, I’d be introduced to Evergorne Court. The thought of what was coming barreled over me, knocking me flat. I picked at the food, my appetite nonexistent. Farris sat beside me, begging for treats, and I couldn't resist. He caught each bit I tossed him and munched with satisfaction. At least the cook's efforts hadn't gone to waste.
Then he started gagging, coughing and spinning around.
“Oh, my.” Lord Briscalar rushed over to us, his handsfretting at his sides. He looked from the nyxin to my plate, his eyes widening. “What did you feed him?”
