Chapter 47

HELEN'S POV

I hurried down the palace hallway, heading for Gina's chambers. My heart raced in my chest as I moved. I was a little scared. I knew how late I was. If there was anything Gina hated, it was being late whenever she called. It was never a good thing with her. The very thought of her icy stare made me gulp in fear.

The mere fact that she had summoned me so early already hinted at the kind of mood she was in, and arriving late would only make things worse.

Finally, I reached the door to her room. I paused for a moment, taking a deep breath to prepare myself. I needed to be calm and composed. But no matter how many times I told myself that, the fear still gripped me tightly. She was the only one who knew.... Gina was the only one who knew my deepest secret and that knowledge gave her power over me.

I knocked gently, then pushed open the door.

“About time,” Gina snapped as soon as I entered.

She was seated by her vanity, brushing her hair.

“I’m so sorry, Gina. There was an i