CASSANDRA
A lump formed in my throat and my heart began to race as I stood frozen in the doorway. Beyond the table, Erika gave me an apologetic expression and mouthed the word “sorry”. I could tell she felt bad that they were there, but I knew it wasn’t her fault. Erika couldn’t stop the Alpha King’s wife and son from entering even if she wanted to.
Adalyn continued to stare at me coldly, and Erika hustled to my side.
“Erika, could you please prepare some tea?” I asked her quietly. “In the meantime, I’ll deal with Lady Adalyn.”
“Are you sure, Cassandra?” the maid replied, and her eyes widened. “I can stay-”
“I can do this,” I insisted. “Please leave us.”
Erika nodded and then slipped away to make the tea. Once she was gone, I turned to Lancel.
“Could you grant Lady Adalyna and me so
