As the queen's words settled into the quiet space of my mind, I couldn't help but replay the conversation, turning over every detail. Her story had been so unexpected so different from what I'd imagined demon royalty to be like.
I had expected formality, perhaps some distance or airs of superiority. Instead, she had shared with me something raw and personal, her laughter still lingering in the air as she recounted her once stormy relationship with the king.
Leaning back in my chair, I watched the queen, who had now turned her attention to something else at the table, her smile soft and her posture relaxed.
There was a lightness about her, a confidence that came from having lived through her doubts and fears, and having emerged stronger on the other side. I wondered if that could be me someday.
I glanced at Seraphine, sitting beside me, her eyes focused on the meal in front of her but with that constant air of thoughtfulness about her.
