The court repeats his words, saluting happily. “Long live the queen!”
The king kisses my cheek, ensuring I know he will stick to his word to protect me, no matter what. Even though this marriage is a ruse, so to speak, I have never been happier to lie, for King Beornwulf is a good man.
We sit down to eat, and for the first time in a long time, I have an appetite…fit for a queen.
The night has been rather enjoyable, as I have loved watching my brother sit uncomfortably. He doesn’t belong here. This is not his kingdom. It is mine. But he knows my father will want Northumbria to work with Mercia, which means he will need to work with me.
This plan was better than I anticipated, but I still can’t help but think that my father or brother will eventually betray us one day.
King Egbert is a
