Page 60 of A Clash of Embers

"Because only my friends call me Estelle?"

I tilted my head, "How many friends do you have?"

"None. Follow me." Consul Loveridge turned quickly and started walking towards another corridor that led into spaces with beds that were built one on the other. There were two stacked beds in a room, meaning four people could stay in one sleeping space.

Loveridge pointed into a room. "This is where you will be staying this evening. Don't get into anything you're not supposed to and be quiet."

I grinned.

"I'm serious, Princess Clara. Our jobs here are extremely important. Including mine. I represent the royal family when we are in the Beacon. I make decisions for your mother when I need to." She swiped her hands over her uniform that was strapped with blades and scary looking equipment.

"If you need anything, you only need to press this button on the wall. Someone will come to you."

I sighed as she turned and walked away. I stood in the small room looking at the empty beds that were neatly made and tucked in on the sides with white linen. I picked a bed on the bottom and laid down, and the onslaught of thoughts passed through me because it was eerily quiet.

Ev. What's going on? Why am I down here?

I was still wearing this gods awful dress that my mother picked out and I wanted to change into something—anything that wasn't this.

I felt the scratch on my neck as Ev's voice filled my mind.

We have to protect the crown. Looks like Queen Anne is paying a visit to your mother this evening.

Why would she be coming tonight? Where are you going to hide?

In your bedroom.

I sighed because I wanted to be in my bedroom and,really,a part of me wanted to be with Ev. That button on the wall seemed more intriguing the more I lay in this itchy dress.

Fuck it.

Within seconds of pressing the button, a young witch approached the door with a large smile on her face.

"Princess, can I be of assistance?" she asked sweetly.

I smiled back. "Yes. I would love a change of clothes. I need to get out of this dress."

She nodded. "Very well. I will be right back with your fresh clothes."

I blinked and she was gone.

Glancing around the room, I wondered who was supposed to be in the room with me. Would I have to stay here alone?

"Here you are," a chipper voice alerted me.

"Oh. Thank you. I'm sorry, I didn't catch your name."

She smiled, "I'm Kay and I'll be your assistant while you stay here."

I reached out and grabbed the clothes from her hands.

"Is there anything else I can assist you with?"

She seemed so rigid and unsure. Uncomfortable.

"No, this is all I need. Thank you."

She bowed awkwardly and then she was off.

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