My Black Inheritance

34

She never came for breakfast, lunch and unfortunately for dinner, so I had to go eat with His Highness with the Queen.

I wore a long, white dress with a beaded bodice and a long, flowing skirt. I put my hair up in a bun and put on some light makeup.

I completed my outfit with a pair of silver sandals and a pearl necklace. I also added a pair of diamond earrings to add a touch of sophistication.

Although I still waited for her knock, I knew deep down that she was not coming and I had to accept it.

I took a deep breath, put on a brave face, and walked out of the door, determined to make the best of the night.

Slowly I made my way to the great hall, my dress swishing around my ankles. I could feel the eyes of the palace staff on me as I walked, and I could feel their curiosity and judgment.

I squared my shoulders, lifted my chin and marched through the grand doors. As I entered the great hall, I was taken aback by its magnificence.

Chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and the walls were lined with tapestries and portraits. I could see the Queen and His Highness seated at the long table, and I took a deep breath before walking towards them.

I bowed gracefully as I reached them, making sure to keep my eyes lowered. The Queen welcomed me with a nod and gestured for me to sit down.

I could feel His Highness' gaze on me as I sat down, but I refused to look up and meet his eyes. I kept my gaze downcast, focusing on the intricate designs on the tablecloth.

I could sense the tension between us, and I was grateful when the Queen started the conversation, breaking the awkward silence that had descended upon us.

"So I assume that the party was successful?" The Queen asked with a gentle smile, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

I replied, "Yes, Your Majesty. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and we had a wonderful time."

I could feel His Highness' gaze on me as I spoke, but I refused to look up and meet his eyes. Instead, I kept my gaze downcast, focusing on the intricate designs on the tablecloth.

I was relieved when the servants came with the food, placing platters of roasted meats, salads, and fruits on the table.

The smell of the food was mouth-watering, and I could feel my stomach grumble in anticipation. I could feel His Highness' gaze on me as I helped myself to the food, but I refused to look up and meet his eyes.

"I'm sure you had fun Estelle," The Queen said with a warm smile.

Before I could answer, His Highness spoke up. "Estelle seems to have enjoyed herself, Your Majesty. I can tell from her enthusiasm that she had a great time."

I looked up to see his gaze full of lust and anger, and I quickly averted my eyes. I could feel my cheeks heat up as I was suddenly aware of the intensity of his gaze.

I could feel my heart racing as I felt the full power of His Highness' gaze, and I could sense the lust radiating from it.

His voice was cold and distant as he spoke, and I could feel the anger emanating from him. I knew he was angry at me for leaving him yesterday, and I could tell that he was trying to hide his emotions.

His expression made me uneasy, and I could feel my heart pounding in my chest. I stayed quiet, not wanting to risk saying anything that could aggravate the situation.

He continued to stare at me, not saying a word. I was so uncomfortable I wanted to leave the room.

Finally, he broke the silence and said something that changed the course of the conversation.