44. The Royal Hunt

I left my room and jogged lightly down the corridor, intending to go to Aunt Disa’s room. But I was stopped abruptly by Vincent, who suddenly appeared at the intersection.

“Queen Delilah.” Vincent offered a thin smile. “Please, no running in the hallway. You’re about to be crowned.”

I giggled, embarrassed. “I’m sorry, Vincent. I was in a hurry to see my aunt.”

“Oh, could it wait a moment? King Elijah wishes to speak with you in his room.”

I nodded quickly. “Yes, sure. I’ll go see King Elijah now.”

Vincent walked beside me, and I couldn’t help but notice something different about him. He seemed slightly cheerful, though I couldn’t put my finger on why.

The door to Elijah’s room was open, and I could hear voices inside. Vincent knocked on the door, and I stood in the doorway to greet Elijah.

“Good afternoon, King Elijah,” I said.

Inside, Elijah was with Eugenia. The king stood before a mirror while Eugenia stood behind him, helping him put on a fur coat.

“What do you think, Delilah?” El