“Well, this is …interesting,” Leanna drawled out and scanned between the man and me. “I hadn’t expected to see you here, Audryn.” My name was like a sugary venom on her lips.
“Yes, well,” I offered, searching for the reason I’d given to begin with, “I was …”
“Bringing the tray in from dinner,” the man said, completing my sentence for me. “She was polite enough to bring it down herself instead of taking up our staff's time.”
Leanna’s eyes looked at the tray and then darted to me. “It appears your task is complete.” She pursed her lips. “We are meeting my brother tomorrow afternoon if you’re available to do so, or shall I expect to find you with the gardener next? Perhaps trimming the roses?”
“I’ll be there,” I replied quickly, giving her a friendly grin, which she didn't return. Got it—winning her over with my shining personality wouldn’t work. I’d need to try a different tactic. Allura let out a heavy sigh and looked down the hall, clearly bored.
“We’re meeting in the sitting room at two o’clock. From there, we’ll walk down to the fighting ring to meet Prince Sutton.” Leanna scanned my clothes and gave me a sad smile. “Please be sure to dress appropriately for the occasion.”
“Yes, Princess Sutton.” I dipped into a bow.
“Audryn, this is not a formal occasion. Leanna will do,” she responded curtly before turning to leave.
The man chuffed behind me as the door shut, and I wascertain he swore under his breath. He too noticed Leanna’s frustration with my presence.
“Thank you for that.” I dipped my chin.
“No need to thank me.” The man extended a hand. “The name is Draven, I’m the head chef. If you need anything, let me know.”
I didn’t want to ask for a favor immediately, but I also didn’t want to get sidetracked. “Actually,” I said, hesitating, “I’m looking for the library. Could you provide directions?”
“A woman who enjoys a good read—I like that.” He nodded and gave me the short list of turns.
“Thank you again for the delicious dinner. It was truly enjoyable.” I curtsied before turning and pushing out the kitchen doors.
12
AUDRYN
The library was farther away from my room than the kitchen. I’d half expected to get lost, but I found the two mahogany doors leading to what likely held the name of the man I would destroy. With any luck, I’d kill the king and the executioner without being caught.
The moment I walked in, I lost my breath. The room was an open, two-story layout with four spiral staircases to access the upper level. Several light-blue stained-glass panes adorned the ceiling, letting the sky push in.
Books lined the shelves. Dozens sat stacked on small tables around the room, thoughtlessly abandoned without a home. My father would have slept on the stone floor if it meant he could live among the aisles. Maybe the prince would allow him to visit the space before he dismissed me.
“May I assist you?” a female voice drew my attention.
An older fae woman sat at a tiny table, glasses resting on the tip of her nose. She was exactly what I pictured when I thought of a centuries-old librarian. The woman wore a loose dress, avoiding the tight corsets that younger women endured in the name of beauty.
“Are you looking for something specific?” she asked. “Perhaps I can guide you to a section of interest or recommend a read.”
Staring for far too long, I examined the large mole pasted on her forehead. The irregularly shaped blemish was much darker than her fair skin. She cleared her throat, forcing me out of my impolite daze.
“I’m looking for a specific book, a records book of sorts.” I stepped forward and lowered my voice as my hand fidgeted with my mother’s necklace. “It documents each public execution, and I hear it goes back for many years, but I’m most interested in the last two.”
“Now, why would you want such a book?” The familiar voice sent a shiver down my spine. Hunt stepped out from behind a towering bookcase, his dark uniform blending in with the shadows.
Foolishly, I’d thought it was only the librarian and me in the enormous space. I hadn’t considered others might’ve been roaming the surrounding aisles. My knees weakened, legs threatening to collapse from under me, but I begged them to keep me upright. He posed no greater threat than usual, but I’d carelessly tipped my hand.
“I … uh,” I stuttered, “I enjoy history, and I figured since I was here, I might as well make the most of it.” My words poured out. “Maybe a book about the Great War or the kingdoms dividing? Whatever you suggest, I’m interested. Gotta keep the mind busy.” I chuckled anxiously.
“The execution records are kept in the king’s personal library, in his study,” the librarian continued. “They are confidential and unavailable to the public.”
“It’s not wise to provide the whereabouts of that book to just anyone,” Hunt attempted to scold the woman.
“Guard Hunt.” The woman stood and stepped toward the haughty male. She was a full foot shorter than he was. “Do nottell me how to conduct myself at my work, and I will afford you the same respect. In the meantime, please leave so I may assist this young woman.”
