Chapter 8

Queen Belinda waited for Philpé, the royal artist, to finish his bow. Then, his assistant bowed the same while juggling the easel and paints.

“Your majesty, good morning.” Philpé smiled. Queen Belinda warmed at his charming face. The painter was a handsome man. But this was not a face Belinda expected to see today. It was entirely out of the blue.

“Philpé, I didn’t know you were coming. Are you here to do one of my ladies' portraits?”

“Ah, no, your majesty.” Philpé shook his head.

“ I’m here to paint a miniature of his highness.”

Philpé couldn’t hide the prideful smile. It was a rare treat for him to have a one-on-one with royalty. So it made him excited and boastful.

“A miniature?” Queen Belinda uttered. Her brow raised, but she relaxed.

Of course. Queen Belinda thought. It made sense. It was her husband's affair, after all.

Perhaps he’s making it for me.

Queen Belinda had her heart flutter. It had been quite the time since she last had his miniature. It was back when they first