Chapter 34: Chapter 34

Violette POV

“I know it’s your birthday, Lillian.. but unfortunately the King requested me to work in his chambers today.” I said with a frown on face. I felt awful that I didn’t have money to get her a gift, but more so that I couldn’t spend time with her.

Though, I do have a pearl necklace that I arrived with. And I plan to give it to her tonight when I finish in the Kings chambers.

“That’s okay! Beatrice already informed me.” She said with a smile.

“You won’t be working with us, today?” Sylvia asked. She had a sad look on her face as she picked at her food.

“No, Sylvia. I won’t be. I have to be with the King today. I am his slave after all.. he has needs that I need to tend to.” I said. She scoffed, making me give her a stern look.

“You can’t do that. This is his kingdom, and you will be punished for acting like that.” I said. She sucked in a deep breath and frowned even more.

“We were afraid for your life yesterday. And when I finally get to talk to you or spend any time with you, you can’t stay for long because you have to serve the King.” She said.

“I know, Sylvia. But I’m a slave now.. you have to remember that. Any defiance could mean punishment or even death for us. I won’t let you risk your life over something so trivial.” I said. She sighed and nodded, but I could tell she had more to say.

“At least you get to stay. And any other day that she’s not with the King, she gets to spend with us. Even if it is working.. we’ll get to spend time together like we used to.” Lillian giggled softly.

“I actually don’t mind the working. It’s something I get to do to take my mind off of everything.” I said.

“Like your mate?” Sylvia asked. My heart sank into my stomach.

“Yes..” I said as I furrowed my brows.. my mind slipping into deep thought.

“It’s not fair. For the king to treat you so badly after everything..” Sylvia began but I cut her off.

“We don’t talk about that, Sylvia. No one is to know.” I said.

“He wouldn’t be where he is today if it wasn’t fo-“ Lillian jabbed her in the shoulder with her elbow.

“Sylvia, stop. Princess said not to talk about it.” Lillian said.

“He may not treat you so badly if he knew, is all I was getting at.” Sylvia finished.

“He doesn’t treat me as bad as you may think, Sylvia,” I said. I moved my tray over, as I couldn’t stomach much more. I have things to do and sitting here while I could be getting things done.. well, that just meant I would get back to my chambers later than usual.

“She’s right, Sylvia. Most slaves would be dead after the things Princess has done. I mean.. attacking a servant of the kingdom is a death sentence, and she’s clearly fine. He even had her dressed in silk. She almost looks the way she did at home.” Lillian said with a bright smile. I couldn’t help the smile that formed on my face.

“It is surprising..” I said. I felt my face slightly heat up as I thought about it.

“I must go. I have to bring the king his food.” I said.

“I’ll walk you. Ms. Beatrice asked me to carry your cleaning supplies.” Lillian said. I nodded my head as I stood up, walking over to Sylvia and kissing the top of her head.

“I will see you later, Sylvia,” I said.

Lillian and I headed to the kitchens where we spotted Ms. Beatrice working over the stove.

“Ahh, there you are. I was worried you may have forgotten.” Beatrice said. I let out a small giggle.

“No, I don’t forget things,” I said. She walked over to the counter and grabbed a plate full of food. I wished the servant’s food looked close to this good. There were strawberries.. strawberries from the garden that we weren’t allowed to have. They are the royal’s strawberries, and goddess did they look amazing and full of flavor.

“Here. Be quick so it doesn’t get cold.” Beatrice said. She handed me a cup of coffee and pushed me on.

“Lillian the supplies are right there.” She pointed to a box. Lillian walked to the far corner of the room and picked them up, and then followed behind me as I walked out.

“Goddess, I would kill for a strawberry. They always look so good in the gardens.” Lillian said.

“They do indeed,” I replied swiftly.

“I’m sorry about Sylvia. I’ve tried explaining things to her, but she just refuses to understand.” She said.

“It’s okay, Lillian,” I said.

“You look like you’re feeling quite well today. I thought you’d be in more pain.” She said.

“I feel great,” I said. We walked through the halls, almost making it to the King’s chambers before Minerva spotted us and walked over to us.

“Is that the King’s food?” She asked. I nodded, all while Lillian glared daggers at her.

“Give it to me. I don’t want your filthy hands on his plate, you may have even poisoned it.” She said. She reached for the plate and I pulled away.

“Don’t touch. Ms. Beatrice said she is the one to deliver the King his food.” Lillian growled.

“Excuse me? Do you know who I am? How dare you talk to me like that.” Minerva sneered as she stepped closer to us. We took two steps back and stared right back at her.

“I could say the same for Princess. Now, if you please, get out of our way so the King can have his food.” Lillian demanded. I love how brazen she can be sometimes.

“No. Give me the plate.” Minerva reached for it again, yet I pulled away.

“Listen here, you little bitch. If you don’t give me that plate, I will make you regret it.” She said. I shook my head, and went to speak.. but before I could I heard a man clear his throat. Minerva turned around and spotted Loren.

“I knew it was you I heard. Minerva, step aside for the king’s Slave. I would hate to have to tell him what I’ve heard.” Loren said.

“You’d really trust the slave to bring the king’s food unpoisoned?” Minerva scoffed.

“I trust her far more than I trust you. So step aside, or I’ll have the King out here in a moment. Now, please.. don’t make me say it again.” Loren said.

“Fine.” She said. She stepped aside, and as I went to walk by her she stuck her foot out and tripped me. As I fell towards the floor, a rush of air went by me, and before I could hit the floor, arms wrapped around me. Sadly, it was far too late. The King’s plate and coffee flew onto the floor with a loud bang, food and liquid splashing everywhere.

Minerva gasped as I was pulled to my feet. The arms pulled away from me, and I gathered myself.. but I couldn’t help the tears that began to pour.

“Minerva, what the hell?” The unfamiliar voice growled. Minerva just stormed off with hatred all over her face. Loren ran over to us, picking up the plate, and scooped the food onto it. Sobs left my mouth.. I’m afraid. I’m afraid this will not be good for me.

“Oh princess, are you okay?” Lillian asked as she wrapped her arms around me. She kept looking at this man, and I could hear her heart racing in her chest.

“Mate.” The man said softly. I was greatly confused for a moment before my eyes met Lillian’s..

“M-mate..” Lillian gasped.

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