I hid in the dark corners, watching the door to Xaphen’s chambers for what felt like forever. My legs were already threatening to give way, but I kept my eyes trained on that door. I had to know who was in there with him. After nearly an hour of waiting, the door finally pulled open, and a stunning woman stepped out―tall, with an hourglass figure, like someone who was a model for luxury brands. Her long, wavy blonde hair and confident, graceful walk made her look like she owned the crown more than I did. My heart sank. “Who is she? Another mistress?” I thought, my mind failing to come up with a sane response. “Is Xaphen keeping another secret from me?” The woman didn’t glance my way as she passed by, but the faint scent of her cinnamon clove perfume lingered, spicy enough to make head

