The Proposal

39 - Disappointment

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"Nicholas's mother? As in the queen?" I asked, still surprised.

"Former queen, but yes," she answered.

The moment she clarified who she was, I suddenly started noticing the resemblance Nicholas shared with his mother. It was incredible, and I had no idea why I didn't notice it immediately she walked in.

She was really beautiful, just as Alma had told me before when she was telling me about the queen. She was ageing like like fine wine.

"It's my pleasure to finally meet you, Crystal," she said. I didn't know whether to curtsy or just greet casually. I was utterly confused.

"It is an honour to meet you too." I just went with that instead, smiling politely at her.

"Please come in and take a seat." I gave way and gestured towards the sofas. She smiled at me and went to take a seat. I followed and did the same.

After seating, I glanced at her, not knowing what to say or do. I had no idea how she found me or why she came to visit me. I was curious and eager to speak with her, but I didn't even know where to start. I didn't know anything about this woman, and I had been living with Nicholas for months now. I suddenly started feeling guilty for not asking questions about her.

"I know you must have many questions." She broke the awkward silence that was beginning to settle in.

"I am here because I heard what happened in the palace, between you and my son," she said, and for a minute there, I was frightened as her tone was plain and so was her expression. I didn't know if she was here to judge and condemn me as well.

"I didn't do it," I said, immediately defending myself.

"I believe you," she said, surprising me.
"Your sister already made that clear when she reached out to me." I was shocked yet again.

"Ruby reached out to you?" I asked. How the bloody hell did she pull that off?

"Yes, through my second son, Luke," she simply answered. "I am here to help you, Crystal. I do not want you to suffer the same fate as I did, especially when you are innocent," She said. I was really amazed by everything she was saying.

"When I heard that my son had finally married, I didn't believe it at first because of what happened with Nicholas. But then everyone saw how smitten and happy Nicholas was with you, and that gladdened my heart. I don't want my poor boy suffering the pains of heartbreak, I want him to be happy, and for him to be happy, I need to exonerate you," she said.

"How?" I asked hopelessly.

"By exposing the real culprits," she answered.

"Culprits?" I noticed she said plural.

"Yes, I believe the boy who you were accused of cheating with didn't work alone. In fact, I believe Georgia was solely behind it," she said.

"Georgia?" I was baffled, but at the same time, my mind opened up to new possibilities. I couldn't believe I hadn't thought of it before. It was beginning to make so much sense.

Her words began to echo in my head from the times she boldly said she would do anything to get Nicholas.

"Oh my God," I uttered, feeling stupid for not thinking about it.