We were still drinking tea—well, the Queen was, at least. I just sat, unsure of what to do next. The tea wasn't bad, but it felt oddly formal, like drinking tea with Queen Elizabeth herself.
[So you're just bored, host?]
Yeah, but saying it like that makes it sound like I don't enjoy being with the Queen. I do… mostly.
[You're bored.]
Mm-hmm.
I let my eyes wander. Anywhere but the Queen.
That's when I noticed Prince Elias, sheathing his sword. Sunlight caught the damp strands of hair plastered to his forehead. Sweat traced the planes of his face, clung to his neck, and outlined the fabric of his shirt along muscles I probably shouldn't be scrutinizing.
[Oh great, now he's hot and sweaty. Perfect.] Nero's voice buzzed in my mind, smug as ever.
I scrunched my face. Shut up, Nero. Not helping.
The Queen, serene and flawless, didn't flinch. She watched him for a moment, then turned her gaze back to me, a faintly amused smile tugging at her lips.
