The Queen

11. A blind man's buff

"Your Highness, you can join us if you wish."
A lady of the court came running toward Samira as she enjoyed her morning walk in the gardens. She appeared to be around Samira's age, with a beautiful complexion, shoulder-length blonde hair, and striking blue eyes. She smiled warmly, and Samira returned the gesture.

"What is it you're playing over there?" Samira asked, glancing at the white piece of fabric in the lady's hand.

"We're playing Blind Man's Buff. We would be delighted if you joined us."

Samira looked over at the group a few feet away. They were members of the court—ladies and lords all around her age. She knew it was time to start making some friends. Among them was also Henry, her brother-in-law, who gave her a nod, acknowledging her presence and welcoming her to the group.

"Why not," Samira replied with a smile, walking toward them. "What's your name?" she asked the young woman as they approached.

"I'm Lady Sarah—but you can just call me Sarah, Your Highness."

"Alright, Sarah. Then you can call me Samira."

Lady Sarah tied the white fabric around another lady's eyes, blinding her. Everyone scattered, laughing as the blindfolded woman reached out, trying to catch someone.

Samira laughed—genuinely. For a fleeting moment, her burdens vanished. She felt light and carefree, something she hadn't felt in a long time.

From Alice's room window, Philip watched as Lady Eleanor tied the fabric over Samira's eyes. He saw her laugh, her joy radiating from her like sunlight. She looked so pure, so alive. As she moved, her curls bounced over her shoulders, and her light blue dress danced in the wind.

She nearly caught Lady Anne, but Anne escaped just in time, sending Samira into a burst of laughter. Philip found himself smiling, wondering if anyone else could see the light that shone from her when she smiled.

But his smile vanished when Samira caught Henry. The two laughed hysterically. Henry's hands landed on Samira's waist, then moved to remove her blindfold. They were far too close. Philip's blood boiled with rage.

"Philip?"
Alice emerged from the bathroom, her wet hair clinging to her shoulders, wearing only a robe. "What are you looking at?"

Philip didn't answer. He couldn't hear anything but the deafening sound of fury. All he saw was his brother's neck between his hands. Without a word, he stormed out of the room, ignoring Alice as she called after him.

By the time Philip reached the gardens, Henry was blindfolded, laughing, trying to catch someone. Without warning, Philip ran and shoved Henry to the ground. The group stopped in stunned silence.

"What is it with you always being near my wife?!" Philip shouted.

"And what is it with you always being far from her?" Henry replied calmly, which only infuriated Philip more.

Philip drew his sword and pressed the tip to his brother's throat.

"Philip, stop!" Samira cried out, horrified.

"I made myself clear last time—I don't want you near her!" Philip roared.

"You're a hypocrite," Henry snapped, his tone bitter now.

Blood began to trickle from Henry's neck as Philip pressed harder.

"You'll kill him! Please, stop!" Samira sobbed. Tears ran down her cheeks.

Her voice reached him. He looked at her—devastated and crying—and something in him shifted. He looked back at Henry, lowered his sword, and walked away.