“I know. I’m sorry.” She leaned in to kiss him, but he turned away. That stung worse than any of his words.
“I need to get ready,” he said. “I’ll meet you downstairs.”
Evelyn stepped back so Leo could grab his clothes off the floor. He dressed quickly and left.
The bed was still warm when Evelyn sat down. She hid her face in her hands.
I’ve made such a mess! I thought Leo and I were better. We fought yesterday, but he apologized. He traveled to three courts to grant me equal rank as queen. We’re married! Can’t we be okay for more than one night?
I need to finish my Bargains with Haydn. The two deals that I can complete, anyway. I don’t think there’s an end to the Bargain where I promised not to mention his Traveling magic. But once I’m in Lochmatten, he will tell me whatever secret he knows about my family. That will get rid of one tattoo, then I’lllose another when Haydn uses his last two wishes. I just need to get through a few more days.
59
Decisions
Leo was discussing plans for the day with General Savatier and Commander Magalie in the ballroom. Evelyn lingered by the door, unsure if Leo would want her to interrupt.
How long is he going to be angry about my Bargains with Haydn?
Damien appeared at her side. “I told you he would show up.”
Leo handed Savatier a piece of parchment. The general read it, then his eyes shot to Evelyn. Magalie had a similar reaction. Evelyn lowered her head to avoid their stares.
“What’s going on?” Damien asked defensively. “Why are they looking at you like that?”
Evelyn couldn’t hear the short conversation Leo had with them. Savatier eventually left with the parchment. Magalie called over all the guards within earshot, including Rory and Simon.
“What’s happening?” Damien asked again.
“Leo is changing the law of succession.” Evelyn’s voice was low and monotone. “If he dies, they won’t appoint a new king. The kingdom will be mine.”
“You…What? How?”
“That’s what Leo was working on yesterday. He told me this morning.”
“But he can’t just change the law. He needs the approval of three courts to?—”
“He got it. Nicolas, Robert, and Grégory signed off already.”
Damien was visibly agitated, like he had the urge to fight but there wasn’t an enemy nearby. “You didn’t know Leo was planning this?”
“No.”
“Are you okay?”
Evelyn glanced up at him. “No congratulations?”
“Is this what you want?” he whispered.
She shrugged. “It’s already done.”
The group of guards dispersed from their meeting with Magalie. Rory and Simon returned to Evelyn.
Simon looked a bit dazed, but Rory bowed. “You’ve come a long way in three months.”
“Have I?” Evelyn asked sarcastically.
Damien snorted. “The queen who didn’t want to be royal and the king who didn’t want to rule. What a godsdamned shitshow this kingdom is becoming.”
