Cherished Lady: Part II

11- Artemis

Walking around the hospital was exhausting. My leg was throbbing by the end of it. I was relieved when we had finally returned. The poor queen looked tired as well. I don't know how she did this all the time.

"Artemis are there any other appointments today." She looked at me hopefully.

"No ma'am. I made sure to keep your evening clear since I knew today would be long." She would have suffered through something if need be, but I didn't see a reason to do so. In my short time being her Lady's Maid I had become very protective of the woman.

"In that case I am going to take a rest. Please don't let anyone disturb me." I just nodded as a response.

She had slipped off her shoes and was headed toward her bedroom, her body relieved she was going to lay down. She only made a part way before the knock sounded. I was instantly annoyed. Seriously! She just got here.

I rushed to the door a scowl on my face mustering up my energy to reprimand whoever was on the other side. I whipped the door open with more force than usual ready to give a verbal lashing but all the air rushed out of me upon see the visitor.

The king was standing in the hallway looking right at me with a shy smile on his face. My wolf chuckled in my mind upon seeing the man. She thought it was funny how quickly my inner confidence shriveled and died in his presence.  I realized I was downright gawking at him and lowered my eyes before addressing him.

"I'm sorry your majesty. The queen is resting." I didn't want to disappoint him but she needed rest. His body immediately sagged at my comment.

""It's alright Artemis." the queen called. "He can come in." I looked at her with concern. She really should rest and her son would more than likely understand that. Did he really need to see her now?

"It's alright," she assured me. "He won't be long." Reluctantly I opened the door and stepped sideways to let him in. I stared at the floor all the while feeling his eyes stare at me as he walked past. It sent a shiver down my spine.  I shut the door behind me and then stood awkwardly playing with the fabric of my dress. The man made me nervous.

The king and queen both talked for a minute before I was called on again.

"Artemis could you tell the kitchen to get me a glass of warm milk?" Yes! Escape! I left the room as quickly as possible. Once out the sitting room I let out a sigh. The nearby guards eyed my distress curiously but otherwise left me alone.

...

I ran to the kitchens and quickly filled the queens order. I could of had a kitchen maid bring it up but I wanted to take the opportunity to avoid the king. I was even able to find some ibuprofen for good measure.

On my way back down the queen's hallway holding the tray I heard a small commotion. I arrived at the queen's door where a guard was talking with another woman.

The woman was gorgeous her long blonde hair was artfully curled and flowing. She wore an elegant knee length tailored dress and simple pearls. Her aggressive stance was in direct contrast to her appearance as she was all but yelling at the poor guard who stood between her and the door.

"I demand you announce me this instant." Her voice was calm but held authority. I could tell she was used to getting her own way.

"I'm sorry my lady but the queen isn't accepting guests." The poor guard was doing his best to stop her, but it was obvious she wasn't taking no for an answer.

"Nonsense, I just saw his majesty go in, so you will let me in also." The woman made a pass to walk around the guard. Before she could get to the door I stepped in front of her.