All three of my wolves tense instantly.
Callum, who’s been lounging in a chair next to the throne, sits up.
“He’s from the neighboring kingdom,” the guard says. “He says he wishes to speak with our queen about… about Lady Snow White.”
Ah, the prince Snow mentioned.
“Let him in,” I tell him with a warm smile.
“Hilda…” Baylin starts, moving closer.
“It’s fine.” I stand, smoothing my dress. “This was expected.”
“We don’t know him,” Arkan growls. “What if he’s a threat?”
“We all know you’ll stay close and protect me if needed.” I touch his face gently. “But you’ll also let me handle this. I’m still a queen. I still have duties.”
“Fine,” Callum grumbles. “But we’re staying.”
I smile again, heart filled with love. “I wouldn’t expect anything less.”
The prince is announced moments later. He’s young…maybe in his early twenties. Handsome in a clean-cut, princely way. Nothing like my rough, scarred wolves. He’s wearing formal attire, clearly trying to make a good impression.
He stops when he sees me, and his eyes widen slightly.
I know what he’s seeing. The Queen, yes, but not the cold, terrifying Evil Queen he’s probably heard about. I’m wearing a simple gown…beautiful but not ostentatious. My hair is down. And I’m surrounded by three massive alphas who are very clearly mine.
The bite marks on my skin are visible. I’m not hiding them.
“Your Majesty,” he says, bowing. “Thank you for agreeing to see me.”
“Prince…” I pause, realizing I don’t know his name.
“Caspian, Your Majesty. Prince Caspian of Calva.”
“Prince Caspian.” I settle back onto my throne. Callum moves to stand next to it, one hand on the armrest. Protective. “I understand you’ve been courting my stepdaughter.”
“Yes, Your Majesty.” He’s nervous, shifting his weight. “I’ve come to formally request your permission to ask for her hand in marriage.”
Next to me, Callum relaxes. Not a threat then. Just a lovesick prince.
“You wish to marry Snow White,” I smile.
“I do, Your Majesty.” His voice is earnest. “I know what you must think…that I’m just another prince looking for a political alliance. But I care for her. Truly. She’s kind and good and…”
I study him. He seems genuine. And Snow had spoken well of him.
“You have my blessing,” I reply simply.
He blinks. “I… what?”
“You have my blessing. And my genuine hopes for both your happiness.” I lean forward. “Snow White is a great girl. She deserves someone who will treat her well, protect her, and cherish her. If you can do that, then you have my full support.”
Prince Caspian looks stunned. “I… thank you, Your Majesty. I didn’t expect… that is, I heard that you and Lady Snow White were…”
“At odds?” I supply, grinning. “That’s in the past.”
His eyes flick to my wolves, then back to me. “I can see that, Your Majesty.”
