Page 18 of Sapphire Queen
Chapter 12
Sarifena couldn’t hide the smile as she stepped into the Constable’s office. She and Heath had made love one more time in the shower, before parting ways. There was a part of her that still worried he’d regret being with her since there was a considerable possibility, she couldn’t have children. But for now, she decided she would let things happen naturally.
“Constable James,” Sarifena pulled the chair out and sat opposite of him. The large oak desk separating her from her most trusted advisor, “Where are we at on finding the person responsible for the attack on the village?”
“I wish I had more to tell you, but there is nothing. Not a single trace of who or what created the devastation.”
“What about Amalee’s kingdom?”
“The explosion was in an unpopulated area. We think it was just a diversion tactic. I spoke with Commander Fritz… he is concerned about motive. I called the Onyx Kingdom yesterday and informed them of my concerns about The Diamond Queen’s wellbeing. Onika has agreed to meet sooner. She will arrive this afternoon, as will Emersyn.”
“They’re coming here - today?”
“Yes. Time is of the essence, Your Majesty. It’s been nearly three months since she was taken. You know the likelihood of her return dwindles with each passing day. And her mother feels the kingdom will unravel without their true queen ruling.”
Sarifena sat stunned. The Constable was right… the longer she stayed missing, the less likely they would find her – alive.
“Why didn’t you notify me last night, that they were coming?”
“You were… preoccupied.” His face reddened with his words.
“Oh… about that,” Sarifena muttered, but he put his hand up, ceasing her words.
“No need to explain, Your Majesty. You’re free to have a private life. I will say I’m glad to see you two finally together.”
“Wait… what do you mean?”
“Silly girl… I may be a man, but I recognize love when I see it. And that man loves you.”
“Well, it’s complicated.”
“I assume you mean your physical set back?”
“Set back… more like life-altering.”
“Sarifena,” he swallowed, “May I be frank?”
“Of course.” she smiled at him.
“Dr. King doesn’t care about how you make a family – he only wants that with you. And since we are on the topic of family,” he sighed, “Don’t you think it’s time you spoke to your mother? I am sure she had her reasons for the lies, but she’s still your mother.”
“Look,” Sarifena pushed her chair back to stand. Bracing her hands on his desk, she leaned close to him, “I agree, Heath, and I can figure this out. And I appreciate your input. But regarding my mother… you should keep your opinion to yourself. She lied about who my father was – that’s major.”
“I hear you. I’m not discounting that fact. But what happens when you don’t mend this and something happens to her? You’ll regret it.”
“Sounds like you’re speaking from experience.”
“I have many regrets, Sarifena. Take my advice, talk to her.”
“Maybe once I speak with Onika and Emersyn, but no promises.”
“Good. You should go eat something, they’ll be here in an hour.”
Sarifena smiled as she left the Constable’s office. She knew he was right about her mother, but there was so much hurt and betrayal, she wasn’t sure if she’d ever been able to forgive her.
