"Valerie, have you gathered all of the maids already?" Hazel asked as she headed toward the ballroom.
"I did, Your Majesty. I have a small selection of maids that I think you would like," said Valerie.
"That won't be necessary. I will be making the pick by myself," Hazel answered.
"Of course," Valerie answered, disappointed that Hazel didn't want to hear her options. She couldn't think of anything she had done wrong for the queen to think she would pick poorly. "I must inform you that Lady Tabitha will be present to see you pick your maids."
Hazel stopped walking upon hearing this news. Tabitha was not present for dinner or breakfast but would be around to see her pick maids? "I informed you this morning to gather the maids but not to tell anyone why. How is it that Lady Tabitha knows about it? Do you not know what a secret is?"
"My apologies-"
