(Elara)
As I slipped out of Isabella's room, a smile tugged at my lips. She had no idea what was coming. By the time she woke up, she'd be gone, and I would be rid of her for good.
No more hurdles, no more interference in my plans for the crown. The royal court would see me as the next princess, and Isabella would be nothing but a memory.
I strode down the hallway, still savoring the satisfaction of my plan. She didn't even know what had hit her. Finally, I'd have what was mine—the power, the respect, and the crown.
Just as I was about to turn down the corridor toward my chambers, Nicholas appeared, blocking my path.
I narrowed my eyes but quickly masked my irritation with a forced smile. If I wanted my plan to go smoothly, I'd need him on my side, or at least distracted enough not to suspect a thing.
"Elara," He said, sounding hesitant. He looked as though he'd been searching for me. "I, uh... I wanted to apologize."
