mfortable bed. A cool, damp towel rested on my forehead. For a moment, panic surged through me-I was in the Queen's chambers. H

whispered, my voice barely a

mirror. I dared to lift my head and looked around the room. It was beautiful-ornate tapestries, polished wood, and soft candlelight that made the space feel warm

ath that smile-a hidden edge, a quiet strength

to help me. I was still too weak to resist.

e food," she said,

faint crackle of a fire in the hearth. When she returned with a bowl of warm stew and fresh bread, I ate ravenously, as if I had n

cious for three day

I'm so sorry I worried you," I said,

. "No, my child. Y

"Who are you, ma'am? I'm

a hint of sadness. "No, you did n

ss the revelation. "Grandmother? But how did I g

your birth. But here-" She reached into a small wooden bo

had the same sharp eyes and strong jawline that I saw in th

s and spilled down my che

she didn't know I knew because, I am a black witch on the run. Our kind do not mix easily, but I wanted this free human life. I married

n after your father's death, I have been casting spells to protect yo

You knew my mother was pregnant

returned. Where is s

witches and white witches have been enemies for centuries." I said

d your mother because of that hatred. But you are not alone anym

lowed myself to believe it. Maybe I was not as alo

pe that I could finally uncover the truth about my past and embrace the power

>

paper, trying to capture Katerina's face. She shook her head in disbelief-she had never seen Kim so obsessed with

im muttered, eyes narrowing as he sketched.

eing the rough portra

r than this." He sighed, frustration flickering acr

anyone," Vee warned, sliding onto t

the mirror. He bared his teeth, revealing s

im followed, but she retreated into her own room

es. Kim raised an eyebrow. "Mace, are you ever going to

a hand over Mrs. Grey's shou

th a warm smile. "You've

groaned, disbel

she wiped the count

ding out a bowl of spag

h a grin. "This isn

, watching as Kim t