The Rightful Queen

Eight

"Well done, daughter," Laith's voice interrupted my train of thoughts as I enjoyed my tea on the balcony. I looked at him and saw him holding an envelope in his hand.

I reached to take it from him when he extended his hand towards me. Carefully, I took out the yellow paper out of the grey envelope and as I started reading it, a smirk appeared on my lips. The king was inviting us to extend our visit. I was on the right path.

Well done.

Now he knew how to praise my actions. Had I not succeeded, he would have made me unable to get out of bed for days.

"It seems that you followed the plan last night," he commented, taking a seat. This was the right time to shove my triumph in his face. Laith had always been a megalomaniac narcissist and I was aware of that. Even though I knew what the consequences of putting him in his place would be, I still did it. I didn't care.

"Actually, when I did follow your plan last night, the king was rather unsatisfied," I pointed out, making him frown. Oh, how I loved that expression on his face. "You see, I played the role of the shy, obedient girl and I can assure you, Zain was quite bothered. He wanted me to speak up my mind, to be the opinionated woman I showed myself to be."

"How did you reach that conclusion?" he failed to hide his anger. His short temper was easily provoked.

"Certainly not based on any assumptions," I smirked. "Zain told me that it was a source of pleasure and pride to meet women like me and that I was one in a million," I remembered his words by heart. "Oh, he also said that I perhaps could encourage others to be as fearless as I am."

"Whatever you were told by him, don't flatter yourself and stick to the plan," he warned me through gritted teeth.

Just before I was about to reply, my maid appeared before us. "Sorry for interrupting your talk, but the king has requested your presence in the gardens."

"Is his servant still by the door?" I wondered, standing up.

"Yes, my Lady," the maid replied.

"Tell him to inform his Majesty that I will be in the gardens as soon as possible," I said, walking inside. I didn't want to leave Zain waiting for long. I had to show him that I was appreciative of his hospitality and fondness of me. I made my way to my chambers to make sure that I looked presentable enough. Today, my hair was pulled up in a neat ponytail and a necklace made of pearls adorned my neck. How I wish I had anything that belonged to my family other than the small necklace I was wearing the night of the attack. I wasn't even allowed to wear that precious piece of jewelry in public lest somebody should recognize it.

Adding more blush to my cheeks, I left the chamber and walked towards the door.

"If you act according to your likings, don't blame anyone but yourself for what will be done to you," Laith's voice sent chills down my spine, but I put my fearless mask on and walked out of the suite.

I hated how he always felt the need to have the upper hand, but this was my chance to be in control. After all, I was the one who was wooing the king. Even if Laith wanted to appear as the leader of the game, I was the main player. He might be the coach, but I was already on the field, making decisions that would serve my agenda.

Even though I hadn't spent enough time in the palace to remember my way around, everything was carved in the back of my mind. I couldn't forget my home. No matter how many years passed, I could easily walk around the palace blindfolded. I had a memory in each corner of that place and each memory fueled my anger and vengeance more. I wanted to see King Zain dead before my eyes, lying down in his own blood, helpless and begging for mercy.