Page 12 of Emerald Queen
“Oh… Um,” she fidgeted on her feet, “I’d rather stick to discussing the party.”
“Fine…” Alex leaned back in his chair, “let’s hear it.”
The men listened as she detailed her plans to combine the two celebrations into one. The surrounding kingdoms would be welcome to show a united front in the troubled times. She would incorporate Emersyn’s birthday into the mix, ensuring it would be happy festivities.
“I don’t see any problems with your plans,” Alex stood from his chair, making his way around the desk to sit on the edge in front of Cassie. “I’ll make sure the security is doubled. And I bet the other kingdoms would offer to help with extra security.”
“The only other thing…” Cassie swallowed, “Emersyn will need an escort. Typically, her father would do it.” She glanced at the two men, “Do you think the constable would do it?”
“No.” Drake growled, “I’ll be escorting the queen. As her personal guard, it is my job to ensure she is protected at all times.”
“Right… That’s exactly the reason you’re volunteering to escort her.” Alex laughed.
“I think that’s a perfect idea,” Cassie blushed.
“Good, then you won’t object to him escorting you.” Drake pointed towards Alex.
“What? NO. I won’t be at the party as a guest.”
“Yes, you will.” Drake stood, “Emersyn will need all the support she can get. And you’re her best friend, royal or not. Being there as her friend and guest is not optional.”
“Fine, but I do not need an escort.” Cassie huffed.
“That is also not negotiable. You will have an escort to the party. And Captain Hill is the perfect option.”
“It’s time you realize status doesn’t mean as much as you think.” Alex stood, “We will speak later about the details, Cassie. Now, if you don’t mind, I need to talk to Drake alone.”
“Sure,” she stood, “I’ll see you later.”
Both men watched as Cassie left the room.
“You’re in over your head.”
“Aren’t you preaching to the choir?”
“True. Alright. Time to look at the pressing matter. Any new updates on the King and Queen’s murder?”
“Actually, I have something interesting to show you.” He walked back around his desk and slid open the drawer.
Alex pulled a large manila envelope and handed it to Drake.
“What is this?” Drake slid his thumb beneath the seal and opened it. Dumping the contents onto the desk, he looked back at Alex confused.
“What am I looking at?”
There was a photo of Emersyn, along with the other kingdom’s queens. Attached to the images was a letter addressed to her.
“It came this morning. No return address and no one saw who delivered it.”
“Fuck. Have you spoken to the other kingdoms?”
“Yes. So far nothing has been delivered to the other queens – seems only Emersyn received a letter. Do we give this to her?”
“No. Not yet. Let’s talk to the other commanders and decide after that. Emersyn does not need this stress with the celebration and her birthday happening. Put it in the safe for now.”
“Fine. It took everything I had not to open the envelope. What if it is a threat?”
“I don’t think it’s a threat… no, I worry it’s something much worse.”
