Page 4 of Undertow
“I’m more than that,” she choked out.
“Yes, you’re one of thehundredsof wards my parents have protected and taken care of.” It was hard not to smirk when she flinched. “But now more than ever, we all need to keep to their rules and wishes. If they wanted you to be an adopted daughter of the royal family, theywould have, Elira. They didn’t. Do not abuse their kindness and memory again.”
“Yes, Princess Sagan,” she rasped, playing the victim.
Like always.
Getting her out is a priority before she turns things around into a cliché that I’m bullying her and distracts from real issues.
I glanced back at the elders. “And whateverprivilegeyou had where you were allowed to speak for my parents died with them as isthe law. I called to smooth things over with the dean of my college and was informed someone already had.” I stared them down in turn. “None of you has the right or permission to speak for me.
“Do not make that error in judgment again and disrespect my parents and their laws.” I felt better when a few flinched. “This is a difficult and tumultuous time. It isnotthe time for too many cooks in the kitchen. The proper chef is here, and I will handle all matters as needed.”
“Yes, of course, Princess, but—” one started to say.
I locked my gaze on him. “I’m not a child and I know when to ask for help or advice.” I gestured to Benson. “As I did, but others ordered him away. That’s undermining my parents and me, and most would consider it treason. Do not overstep again.Everyone will have to adjust, and we will find our new normalaftermy parents are properly mourned.
“I will forgive all of this as an attempt to help me, but I will not forgive it again as it’s overstepping the authority anyone has and underminesmine. And that is unacceptable at a time everyone will be watching us and how the nation handles this change in leadership.”
“Understood, Your Highness,” Benson and the guards said loudly… While a few elders mumbled it and Elira sniffled something.
I met the gaze of the elder I was most worried about, Elder Hardin, my mother always hating him. “I will not forgive it again. No matter your good intentions or the child you might still see me as, I am no longer her, and I’m your future queen. Respect that and all my parents have built.”
Steam practically came out of his ears as he understood the rest of that sentence even if I didn’t say it.
Or lose everything you have and I will do it without a second thought.
I swallowed a snort. I’d do it gladly because I’d have a reason to.
