Page 103 of Violet

Right after the claiming announcement?

Could there be a honey bun cooking away? Is that why everything is rushed?

Or…

Let’s face it, maybe our tired old Monarch is wanting to rest her wings and her wannabe crown. She’s perhaps looking to inject some fire and sparkle into this Season. And this mating ceremony would be the way to do it. Create gossip.

I can tell you if there is a bun, it’s one that doesn’t show. Miss V usually wears loose or skimming, but lately the outfits are tight andTIGHT. So no reason to rush if that’s true.

Do you think there’s been some messing about, or will the perennial Miss V walk down that aisle as pristine as a dewy violet?

My money is on the latter. Where’s yours, Hivemind?

- Queen Bee

CHAPTER

TWENTY-NINE

Violet

Iwhisper the words: “Today’s the day.”

It’s my mating ceremony today.

No matter how many times I say it, the whole thing still doesn’t feel real.

Mom hasn’t stopped fussing with all the RSVPs that have poured in. I don’t even know who half the people are. I would have just liked something small, my family, Stephan and his family…

But he’s famous, and he’s the nephew of the Monarch, something I try not to think about.Secretnephew, because as far as I know, other than his aunt Pen and Heath no one else knows.

“O.M.G.! It’s your mating ceremony. Why aren’t you dancing or throwing up, or?—”

“Rue!” My mom admonishes her. Then shelooks at me with a smile as she steps into the room. “I’ve been so busy working with Penrith to get everything just right that I fear I’ve neglected you.”

She hovers, and Rue suddenly looks as horrified as I feel.

“Mom, I don’t need the Alpha–Omega talk.”

Her cheeks start to turn pink. “I just wanted to check on you.”

There’s shouting and laughter from downstairs. The doorbell rings.

“I’m good, Mom.”

It’s a lie. I’m falling apart. Nerves leap, and I think I’m going to faint every five seconds. But I smile brightly for her.

“Your brother and Mr. Ashford should be back by now…” She gets up as the door rings yet again. “Is anyone going to get the door?” She hurries downstairs.

“It’s, like, seven a.m. Do you think they gambled and went to Emporia and found some high class?—”

“Stop watching old films, Rue.”

I’m worried Stephan’s decided he can’t mate with me. Or Heath’s gone and murdered him.

Both are equally possible.

“Did you see today’s Stitch from the QB? She’s running a poll to see if people think Asher’s run off and is going to leave you disgraced, jilted at the altar.”

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