In full view of the watchful cameras, Julian and I stood side by side in the kitchen, a plate of cookies on the counter before us. We’d already rolled out the dough, cut the shapes, and baked them in the oven. These were the finished results. It had been difficult to relax in front of the camera c
After bringing the cookies to Elva and spending some time with her, I set out again, this time in search of Nicholas. My intentions were dual purpose. I wanted to speak with him as Julian suggested, as well as check on his wounds. He was a fast healer, but his bruises were many. I’d rest easier wh
Fear drove all feeling from my body. Then, at once, in a wave, in all came rushing back, and I was moving. Mark had turned to lead us, but he was too slow. I already knew the way, so I started to run. My little girl was sick. I had to get back to her side as soon as I could. It didn’t make any
The doctor frowned deeper. “And I’m told the symptoms came quickly. I can’t make sense of it. There seems to have been no cause for this reaction. But that’s not possible.” For even the doctor to be confused, sent tendrils of worry shooting out in all directions inside of me. The doctor was suppos
“What do you mean, ‘dark magic?’” Nicholas demanded. I was glad he still had his voice, because mine was totally gone. I had a suspicion that I knew exactly what Veronica meant, but I wanted to hear her say the words. “I mean a curse,” Veronica said. I inhaled a shuttering breath. “It’s possib
Hours passed. Many items were brought to Veronica. Everything from necklaces to teacups to feathers and books. With only a passing glance from her, each item was quickly dismissed. The latest item, a stone found in an odd place in the hallway, was handed to Veronica. “There’s no magic in this,
By the end of the third day of searching, everyone is dead on their feet. Nicholas, Julian, and their men had searched most of the palace, with very few exceptions, like the King’s quarters. Since Veronica said the talisman had to be close, most of the places they had searched would be too far, bu
I could only cry and cry. “I’m sorry,” Nicholas said. “We’re not giving up,” Julian said, louder. “Maybe it’s in someone else’s garments. Which room is next door?” “Jessica’s,” Charlotte said. “With me, then, Charlotte,” Julian said, and the two rushed out of the closet. Nicholas stayed wi