Jasmine's POV
After Estelle departed, I lingered by the doorway as an icy sensation crawled up my spine. The Queen had requested my presence in her private quarters.
I hurried back inside to splash cold water on my face and tame my disheveled hair. There wasn't time for proper grooming, but I refused to appear before her looking completely unkempt.
Queen Jaelyn rarely called for anyone without serious cause. This had to be urgent.
During my childhood, I'd spent endless evenings curled up in the Queen's chambers, nestled against her warmth as she ran gentle fingers through my hair and hummed soft melodies. She was the closest thing to a mother I'd ever known, which meant I could navigate to her rooms without requiring a guide.
