Page 69 of Bride By Coronation

My anxiety reignites. I blurt out, "What do I need to take?"

"Nothing. Everything is provided," she informs me.

"I have to go to work first," I add.

She shakes her head. "They aren't expecting you."

A deluge of exasperation drowns me. "Why is that?"

"It's been taken care of. You don't need to worry," she assures.

"It's not okay to tamper with my career," I warn.

She holds her hands up. "I haven't. Sean took care of it."

"How do you know?"

She sighs. "The Omni don't leave details overlooked. They cross their t's and dot their i's. Your father made sure The Underworld ran that way. There's always a map depending on what choice is made."

I glance out the window, fighting the urge to kick her out and not continue this nightmare.

"Time to go," she says.

I find the ability to follow her. We get to my front door, and she stops. "I forgot!" She reaches into her pocket and pulls out a small notecard. She holds it out toward me. "This is for you."

Cautiously, I ask, "What is it?"

She looks amused at my hesitance. "It's from the king."

The butterflies in my stomach take off. I gape at it.

"He said to make sure you read it," she reports.

I take it, go into the bedroom, and shut the door. I sit on my bed and stare at my name in his handwriting. I finally turn it over, release the seal, and pull out a notecard.

It matches his cream linen letterhead. The front is torn off, and only the inside of the card exists. I run my finger over the soft, uneven edges, and read.

My dearest Fiona,

I figured out the borrowed item.

If you are not 100% sure you will go through with your coronation, then do not leave with Valentina. I would rather be beheaded than have you show up, only to witness your death by their hands.

Sincerely,

The King

My insides curl. I close my eyes, debating about staying home, knowing I can't.

I reread the note again, then rise. I put it with the stack of other letters, take them to the kitchen, and grab the envelope off the table.

"We have to go," Valentina announces.

I ignore her, return to my bedroom, and go into my closet. I press my hand to my safe. The lock whirs, then pops. The door opens.

A stack of cash, my valuable jewels, and my passport are inside. I slide the letters and trust documents on the shelf, then close the door. I lock it and then rejoin Valentina.

"Ready?" she questions, opening the door.

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