Irina POV
Queen Violette's new lady-in-waiting looked average, for a vampire. Black hair. Black eyes. Chic but understated dress. Elegant, with an air of sophistication. But not too flashy, except for a chunky gold statement necklace, evidence of the queen's generosity.
"Mrs. Du Maurier," she said. "You weren't attending the queen months ago when I visited, were you?"
The woman answered in a breathy, childlike voice. "I wasn't a lady-in-waiting, Your Highness. But I've been around Vampsailles for some time now, in the background."
Irina could smell the woman's Dior perfume. A little too strong for Irina's liking. "Hmmm. You look very fashionable. A perfect dame de chambre. Her Majesty must be very pleased. And to have your husband be the king's valet is quite a feather in your cap, wouldn't you say?"
"Yes, Your Highness."
Irina smirked, liking the woman's deference. "So, you must know all the court gossip."
