The Maids'

Chapter 22

         Prince Nicholas Pov

knowing fully well that tonight is the night that decid's Iris fate, With my mind fully made up. I walk to the garden to see the queen seated in her regalia. she seems to be in deep thoughts because of the look on her face held a lot.

your majesty I greeted to get her attention.

'I take it that your with the king wasn't fruitful' she said patting her seat.

Yes milady I reply somberly

"You know Agatha was a good woman, when she first came into the palace all she wanted was to serve me, but my insecurities pushed her away" she said looking at me

knowing that the queen was talking about Iris mother I listen with rapt attention.

what happened I asked

"I saw the king getting unnecessary concern for my maid, and as at then I haven't been able to give the king any heir to the throne, so I became weary of her. And didn't even listen to her assurance that she wouldn't do that to me"

So you sent her to be a water maid? I asked wanting to her to tell me quickly what had happened

"Yes, I thought if the king sees less of her then I would be fine but I just couldn't help but still feel insecure because the king kept asking for her so I tried to have  her killed"

But Iris said her mother died after she was born I said confused.

"That's true, I found out she was pregnant and was engaged to a farmer, so I decided to leave her be. It's saddens my heart when I found out she died." she exhale loudly and turn to face me..

So what now? I asked

"I want her to be happy so am going to grant her marriage to you, it's the least I can do for Agatha." she said

I want nothing more than that too my lady. I reply with my heart soaring in happiness.

            
                xxxxxxxxxxxx

                   Iris Pov

My nerves were all over the place, and I took refuge in the only place I knew how. "The stream" watching the water roll by gave me inner peace.

But my mind couldn't help but stray towards the dinner tonight, it's doesn't look like it will bode well.Me sitting with the royal to eat with them a smile flitter my lips as I imagine the look I will get.

Hearing the crunch of stone had me standing up, only to come face with Prince Desmond. his hair neatly trimmed and brush made him look a tad bit younger than his age.

Sire, I greet as I move to leave.

"Have you had any relation with prince Nicolas" he asked me I looked at him and wonder why he ask me such.

"Answer me Iris, have you any relations with Nicolas? he asked as move towards me

In fear I moved back from him, the look on his face seems like that of a lion who is on a rampage for his prey.

I knew if I move further I would likely tumble into the river. so I stood still and watch him come closer to me with my heart rate accelerating.

"Answer me, Iris" he said slowly as his breath raise the hair on my nape.

No I replied

"you liar, he roared as back hand me which sent my ears on instant echo. I held my hand to my ears as I look at him in fear.