Cost of Power Book 1 - Unsealed +18

31. Just Four of Us!

31.  Just Four of Us!

The Queen was pleased with the outcome of the social seasons, even more that the phenomenon didn't ruin it. For that, she credited Dr . Iro. And taking care of Irin. She decided to assess Catherine for her quality and capability. What if Eric chose a random girl just to make Irin jealous? What if Aria produced a son before Catherine? One would say this was where the story would end, but the Queen would say this is just a start.

The Queen called upon Catherine for tea, and Catherine attended.

"Dearest girl," said the Queen. "What do you think is the biggest difference between a noble lady of the capital and the future Queen?"

Catherine blinked.

"The future Queen has more servants to take care of?"

"The future Queen cannot be wavered by neither gossip nor rumors. Put your sentiment to a side." said the Queen.

Catherine nodded."I will ma'm."

"Have you decided upon your ladies in waiting?" asked the Queen.

"No, ma'm." said Catherine ."How many am I allowed to choose?"

"At least three." said the Queen, "One has to be not oriented."

Catherine nodded.

"Well, can I have Vanessa Wyatt?"

***

Tressa and Pancella were happy for Vanessa.

"Are mother and father that desperate to grip power?" complained Vanessa.

"Come on!" said Pancella, "Her Highness might find you a match"

"She has every reason to hate us!" said Vanessa.

"You are kind, she will love you."

Lady Rosline had servants bringing her dresses. They all looked expensive but not beautiful.

"Mama, they are old-fashioned," complained Vanessa.

Tressa and Pancella nodded.

"Would you like to be dressed as palace maids?"

"Mama!" said Vanessa,

"You need to be polite to Her Highness, and you cannot outshine Her Highness, if you become a lady in waiting, Her Highness could decide your future husband," said Lady Rosline.

Vanessa didn't like how it was unfolding.

"Do I have to do this?"

"Try it and if you don't like it.I won't make you do it."

***

Vanessa poured herself a drink, and Janet approached her. She gave her her cup and Vanessa poured it into her cup.

"Is your mother forcing you?" asked Janet.

"Kind of," said Vanessa.

"I thought it was every girl's dream to enter the court," said Janet,

Vanessa shoock her head. "Not mine."

Vanessa drank from her cup

"Can't you tell your mother that?"

"She wouldn't care," said Vanessa. "The crown princess will hate me for Bryan breaking Sofia's heart. I am too young for the princes to take an interest in, but she'd hate me nevertheless."

"Then, what about making her like her?"

"How?"

"Find something in common," said Janet. "Make her feel comfortable. "