Chapter 4

Nicoli waved to the servants as he passed. But there was no stopping. He wasn’t interested in talking to anyone. His mind was preoccupied.

“My lord,” Thomas opened the bedroom door.

Inside, the room was bare save for furniture. All Nicoli’s toys had been taken away. Queen Belinda had ordered them all thrown out.

“Nine years olds need proper rooms.” That is what she had said. So Nicoli’s toys were taken and replaced with books and instruments. All without Nicoli’s knowledge. Poor Nicoli had quite the shock that day.

But now, Nicoli’s shock was a disenfranchised expectation. His room was more of a library than comfortable. And he had had no appetite for music. Overall, it was a waste, save for one thing. The new writing desk provided had proven itself the best contribution.

“My lord,” Thomas went again.

“Shall I bring tea?”

“No. I want to be alone.” Nicoli walked past.

“Then, I will be on call.” Thomas bowed, hiding the annoyance on his face.

Nicoli waited until Thomas closed the doo