Prince James dropped Lily back to her personal quarters, where she had become accustomed to taking lunch. It was a massive relief for her because she hated sitting in that stuffy dining room with the Empress, Sasha, and Counselor Vesky. James’ presence of late had made the mealtimes more bearable, but she’d vastly prefer quiet meals with him, where he would give her his soft lazy smiles and they could talk openly with each other.
“Stay?” Lily pleaded.
James shook his head, voice full of regret.
“I can’t,” he said quietly.
He looked towards Anya who nodded at him.
“I’ll be along,” Anya said quietly, and then James left.
Lily looked between the two. What was going on?
“Since when do you sit with the royal family for meals?” Lily queried sharply.
“Since I became part of the peace
