I looked at the woman, confusion evident on my face. "The King's ex-mate?" I repeated, trying to process this new information.
The woman nodded, her expression serious. "Yes, Madam Zina. She's waiting for you in the parlor. Don't keep her waiting."
I followed the woman through the grand hallways, wondering why the kings ex-mate request for me. I hadn't known King Xavier had an ex-mate, let alone one who was still at the palace. And why did she want to see me?
We stopped in front of an ornate door. The woman knocked and then ushered me in before closing the door behind me.
The room was lavishly decorated, with furnishings and art work adorning the walls. Seated on the lounge was one of the most beautiful women I had ever seen. Her long, dark hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her piercing green eyes fixed on me as I entered.
"So," she said, her voice smooth as silk, "you're the new maid everyone's been whispering about."
I swallowed hard and bowed my head slightly , unsure of how to respond.
Zina stood up, circling me slowly. I felt like prey being sized up by a predator. "Tell me," she said, "how did a little runaway like you end up as Xavier's personal maid?"
My heart raced. How did she know I was a runaway? "I... I'm not sure what you mean, Madam," I stammered.
She laughed, a sound both musical and menacing. "Oh, come now. I have eyes and ears everywhere in this palace. I know you're not just some ordinary maid. You carry yourself differently. You've known power before, haven't you?"
I remained silent, afraid to confirm or deny anything.
Zina stopped in front of me, her eyes boring into mine. Xavier doesn't take just anyone as his personal maid and the last time he took one, was a long time ago. She kept staring at me which made me uncomfortable. After a while, she finally spoke again. " Where are you from?" I kept quiet trying to form words out of my mouth when King Xavier walked in.
He took a glance at me and then back to Zina.
I quickly bowed my head as King Xavier entered the room, relief washing over me at his timely intervention.
"Xavier," Zina purred, her demeanor instantly changing. "I was just getting to know your new maid."
King Xavier's face remained impassive as he looked between us. "Lucy, you may go," he said, his voice calm but authoritative.
I nodded, grateful for the dismissal. "Yes, Your Majesty," I murmured, and quickly made my way out of the room.
As I closed the door behind me, I could hear Zina's voice rising, though I couldn't make out the words. I hurried down the hallway, my heart still racing from the encounter.
Back in the safety of my small room, I sat on the bed, trying to make sense of what had just happened. Zina clearly suspected something about my past, and her interest in me was unsettling. And then there was King Xavier's timely arrival - had he known I was there?
I shook my head, trying to clear my thoughts. I couldn't afford to read too much into the situation. I was here to work, to start a new life, not to get caught up in palace intrigues.
THE WELCOMING PARTY
The day of the welcoming party arrived with a flurry of activity throughout the palace. As I dressed up in my maid's uniform, I couldn't help but feel very nervous . Today, I would face my past while trying to navigate my new present.
I reported to King Xavier's chambers early in the morning to help him prepare for the day. As I entered, I found him standing by the window, his posture tense.
"Good morning, Your Majesty," I said softly, not wanting to startle him.
He turned, his blue eyes meeting mine. "Good morning, Lucy. Are you prepared for today?"
I nodded, trying to project confidence I didn't entirely feel. "Yes, Your Majesty. I'm ready to fulfill my duties."
A ghost of a smile crossed his face. "Good. Remember what we discussed. Remain in the background, observant but unnoticed. If anyone recognizes you..."
"I'll deny any connection to my former pack," I finished for him. "I understand, Your Majesty."
As I helped him dress in his formal attire - a regal suit befitting the Lycan King - I couldn't help but notice the tension in his shoulders.
"Is everything alright, Your Majesty?" I asked hesitantly. Yes everything is fine, he replied.
When I was done , I bowed my head and was about leaving when he asked me to wait. Go back and change the clothes you're wearing. I will send someone to bring the clothes for you to wear.
I looked at him in confusion but nodded my head in agreement. I couldn't argue with the Almighty king.
A few minutes later, a maid arrived with a stunning gown. I was surprised but put it on without question. The dress was exquisite, fit for royalty rather than a maid. I had lot of questions but kept mute.
When it was time for the party, another maid informed me to wait outside the main building. I was confused but followed instructions. After a while, I was pressed and wanted to use to restroom. Instead of going back to the main building, I decided to use the restroom in the hall.After I was done using the restroom, I unexpectedly encountered Aris. I was surprised to see her but maintained my composure.
"Lucy?" she gasped. "What are you doing here?"
I froze, unsure how to respond. Finally I regained myself and spoke calm. " I stay here now. Do you have a problem with that? "
She looked at me irritated before finally speaking. Don't make me laugh, what would a runaway fool be doing in the party that is meant for Royals? " Ohh please I bet you just came around to beg for food."
I was trying to keep my cool but lost it. "A Runaway, a beggar ? Come on dear sister, a beggar won't be dressed this good and even way better than the Alpha's new pet." I yelled at her.
She looked me up and down, taking in my elegant attire in anger but before she could say more, I hurried out.
Inside the grand hall, King Xavier was officially introduced. Everyone bowed their heads in respect as he took the stage. The whole hall was noisy as everyone kept yelling in Excitement.
"Thank you all for being here," he began. "I have one more introduction to make." I will be introducing you all to someone special.
My heart raced as the doors opened and I was ushered inside. All eyes turned to me as I walked towards King Xavier, trying to appear calm despite my confusion and nerves.
As I took my place beside him, I briefly met Alfred's shocked gaze before quickly looking away.
"I'd like to introduce you all to Lucy," King Xavier announced, his voice ringing through the hall. "My fiancée." I felt my her almost stop immediately I heard those words.
A collective gasp went through the crowd. I stood there, stunned, as Xavier took my hand. I didn't fully understand what was happening. Why was I introduced as the kings mate .