10 After a restless night spent tossing and turning, Piper arose feeling worn out. The guilt over Queen Tess’s dark expression hadn’t allowed her a moment’s peace. Determined to ease the kind woman’s concerns, Piper decided to find a way to get some time alone with her today. She hated having a part in hurting the queen, so she would do anything in her power to make it better for her––short of giving up Liam’s birthright. When Piper handed off Liam to Hettie and made her way to the grand dining hall, she was surprised to find the royal foursome already seated at the table. She scurried in, feeling awkward, and hoping they weren’t politely waiting on her for breakfast. They each had steaming mugs of coffee or tea, but no one was eating. As soon as Piper slid into her seat, Mo whined, “W

