Chapter 54 Open Door

*Ana*

“My good people,” Father’s voice booms to quiet the room. Immediately, people turn in their seats to look his way as Father lifts his glass. On cue, everyone moves to raise theirs. I lift mine as Mykhol refills his before doing the same.

It must be pretty good for him to drink so much so quickly. I note that this must be Mykhol’s third glass. I wonder what it tastes like. Is it sweet? I hope so.

I move to try a sip before I stop myself at the sensation. Someone is watching. I look up in time to see Stepmother wrap her arm around father.

Queen Belinda looks utterly content just being at his side. While poor Nicoli, though, seems to grow impatient. He jitters a little in his seat, looking up at Father.

“We are gathering here to celebrate my son and future heir to Dawny, Prince Nicoli.” King Alexander takes the chance to look over the room. “Though it seems just yesterday I was chasing this scamp about the palace with him butt naked-”

“Hey!” Nicoli snaps in offense. His chee