Page 47 of The Royal Throne
Sabine chose to ignore that comment. Instead, she asked, “Why isn’t Rainer dancing?” He stood off to the side, his arms folded, not even talking with anyone.
“People are upset with Rainer.” His eyes sparkled with mischief.
“Because he wants to go to war with other kingdoms?” If that was the case, maybe she could convince him to stand down. Maybe Felix could even talk with Rainer.
He shook his head. “You honestly don’t know?”
Annoyance filled her. “If I knew, we obviously wouldn’t be having this conversation.”
“Well, my dear Sabine, it seems the people of Lynk love you. They’re upset with Rainer for flaunting his mistress around court. Haven’t you noticed she’s not here tonight? Normally, she’d be at an event like this.”
It hadn’t crossed her mind to even look for the woman—she’d been too distracted by Evander.
“Whatever you’re doing,” Axel continued, “keep doing it. Right now, Rainer is attempting to rectify his reputation. You must understand, Lynk hasn’t had a queen in quite some time.” He pushed her back, holding her at arm’s length. “And right now, you’re the most beautiful queen our kingdom has ever had.” Axel twirled her around before pulling her back into his arms. “What’s even more impressive is that you seem innocent, but I think you know exactly what you’re doing. When you first arrived here, I didn’t think you’d survive Rainer. Now, I don’t think he’s going to survive you.”
The song ended.
Axel winked then turned to find another partner.
Off to the side, Sabine spotted Lottie leaning against the railing, talking to Anton. Without overthinking it, she headed that way. Since she’d returned to the palace, she’d made it clear Lottie should be locked up. If she allowed this evening to pass without making a small scene, then people might think she was okay with Lottie now that the princess was leaving the kingdom, and that was far from the case.
When neither noticed her approach, she cleared her throat.
Anton glanced over his shoulder and upon seeing Sabine, he straightened and turned to face her. “Your Majesty.” He nudged his sister in the ribs.
Lottie slowly turned around, eyeing Sabine.
“Do you need something?” Anton asked.
“I just came over to see what the protocols are for Lottie,” Sabine replied. “I assumed she’d have a guard and would return to her room once her dance with Evander was over.”
“I believe she is no longer confined to her room.” Anton shifted uncomfortably.
“Are you saying she will not be punished for the part she played in Alina’s death?”
Lottie smirked. “What bothers you more? That I’m not in the dungeon or that I’m marrying the man you’re in love with?”
Sabine’s eyes widened in shock. “What did you say?” There was no way Lottie could know Sabine had feelings for Evander.
Lottie took a step closer to Sabine. “I knew you’d traveled with him,” she said, her voice low and containing a threat rumbling through it. “Enough people saw the two of you. What I didn’t know was that you’d fallen for him.”
“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Sabine’s body prickled with heat.
Lottie took another step closer. “You’re young and innocent. Prince Evander probably didn’t even have to lure you to his bed. You probably offered yourself willingly. Pathetic.”
Fury filled Sabine. “You are out of line.” Her hands balled into fists.
“You’re only upset because I speak the truth.”
“The truth?” Sabine sneered, trying to keep her temper in check so she wouldn’t say something she’d end up regretting later. “The truth is you’re responsible for Alina’s death. You tried to have me killed. You want your brother’s throne.”
“Keep your voices down,” Anton said, moving to stand between the two women.
“You’re just jealous I’m marrying Evander,” Lottie said, leaning around Anton to look Sabine in the eyes. “When you’re in bed with Rainer, do you imagine he’s Evander?”
Sabine wanted to hit her.
“That’s enough,” Anton said, twisting to face Lottie. “Like it or not, Sabine is your queen. You will treat her with respect.”
