Arkin stepped forward between me and his Mother, his hand still holding on to her wrist. He shouldn’t have come. And he shouldn’t have tried to stop his Mother from striking me. The Queen would be furious.
“Arkin? What is the meaning of this? Are you aware of your actions?” The Queen asked.
“I’m well aware of what I’m doing, Your Majesty. However, mayhap you have forgotten your position,” he replied, his voice void of emotions. What was the matter with him? How could he dare to speak to his Mother—the Queen—in such a manner?
“Mind your tone. Do not forget you’re speaking to the Queen,” she said.
“I have not forgotten, but it seems you have,” he responded. “You are standing outside, where people can see and witness your actions, and what will they say if they see you slapping the Ki
