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“I know, but he cares little for me,” Gabrielle said. “He’s obsessed with you. He’ll not call for me tonight. Rather, he’ll want me ready to journey with you tomorrow.” She shook her head again. “I hate that Amadeus has done this to me. I’m just an ugly servant girl who everyone dismisses. You two, you and Halo, are so beautiful, so regal. You’ve always been a queen, Aria. I don’t deserve to be among you.” She kept wringing her hands.

“No, you can’t say such a thing,” I told her. “You are beautiful, and I plan to have you in my court as soon as I am crowned. We’ll have you married to the finest of men. I promise. Your life will change.”

“But Polonius would never allow it.” Her head dipped to her chest.

“No, he won’t, but that won’t matter. I’ll be happy to have you with me.” I smiled at her and took her wringing hands into my own. “Go back now. Don’t get caught, and thank you for telling me about the truth spell.”

“Of course,” Gabrielle said, finally smiling a little. “Always.” With t