Page 14 of Snow White

My father takes my hand and squeezes it. Can he tell how nervous I am? Can he hear my heart pounding?

“So that is where you were this afternoon,” he says.

“Yes, Papa. It was nice to go out.”

Azura smiles. “You should be proud of her. She is a reflection of you and your late wife.”

My chest squeezes, and my eyes mist at her words. I am a reflection of my mother? It is something I have always wanted to hear. My mother was a beloved queen. She helped my father rule the land with fairness and kindness. I always wanted to be like her.

My father’s eyes soften, and he kisses the back of my hand. “She is just like her mother.”

I chew my lower lip. All eyes are on me right now, making my palms sweaty. This shouldn’t be about me. It is about my father and the princesses here that could one day be my stepmother.

“We are excited that you have all joined us,” I say, trying to change the subject.

One of the princesses, I think her name is Petunia, says, “Your Highness, you must tell me what oil you use to make your hair shine. It is absolutely stunning.” She strokes her beautiful long blonde hair.

“Of course.” I smile, wringing my hands together. “And please, call me Snow.”

Another princess with mocha-colored skin leans forward. “I would love for you to pick my dress for tomorrow evening’s dinner.”

My smile lessens slightly. “Of course.”

More princesses speak up, paying me compliments and asking me to join them tomorrow in the tearoom. It doesn’t feel right, though, not like Azura’s request. Their desire to spend time with me does not feel genuine.

Azura stands and, not looking my way, says, “If you will excuse me, Your Majesty. I believe I might have a slight headache from traveling today. I’ll have my dinner sent to my room if that is alright?”

My father smiles warmly at her. “Of course.”

“Goodnight,” Azura says and curtsies before gliding away from the table.

I watch as she leaves the room, my eyes straying to her bottom before looking back at the others with heated cheeks. The princesses continue to ask me questions, but the only thing I can think about is when I can see Azura next.

Chapter Eleven

Azura

It’s almost too easy to manipulate these fools. They fell all over themselves, trying to compliment Snow. They don’t realize how they have overplayed their hand.

But if Snow forms new friendships from their efforts, it would be worth it.

I glance at myself in the mirror, surprise showing both on my face and in my eyes. It was one thing to dismiss —kill —a woman who was rude to Snow but concerned about her havingfriends? That was beyond the pale. I need to distance myself from Snow.

I sit at the vanity, my gaze locked on my reflection. I fiddle with my pale ghost-like hair, hating that I couldn’t change the color.

How many years have I looked into this mirror or another and wondered what life would be like if things were different? If I knew my father and my mother hadn’t sold her soul for more power. My eyes go distant in the reflection, and I wonder again if, at the end of this, I will look at myself in the mirror and not recognize myself? Will it be soon? Have I already lost myself?

The softest knock yanks me out of my reverie, the scent of frosted apples overcoming me. I pull my nightgown tighter around my body, feigning a modesty I don’t have before opening the door a crack. “Snow, is everything all right?”

Her pale eyes dart over my nightgown, and she blushes even more. “Yes, I am all right. Are you okay? Are you feeling better?”

I nod. “I’m fine. Do you want to come inside?”

“Won’t you come in, little lamb?” says the wolf in disguise.

Snow bites her lower lip, her cheeks a deep, dusky rose. “I should head to bed soon. I just wanted to make sure you didn’t need anything first.”

“Oh, well, good night then,” I say, closing the door slightly to lure her closer.

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