She's Strict

Luke

Walking in the opposite direction from Father’s drawing room, I went in search of Mother and Abir.

Knowing where they would be, I walked with purpose down the long hallways and across the glittering marble floors with intricate gold overlays. Being in England for so long with the bleak weather and the different style of houses and buildings, coming home to the palace made everything seem brighter, enough that I yearned to wear my sunglasses again.

Mother would never approve, so I didn’t entertain the option. I merely squinted my eyes until they adjusted instead.

The New Year celebration would take place tonight, and Mother always went above and beyond. It was a time to celebrate family and close friends, and she never skimped on the festivities.

I found her and Abir in the Great Hall, overseeing the staff transforming the banquet space into the most lavishly decorated room in the palace.

Abir was the first to see me. “Luke!” He hurried over to me and reached his hand out to shake