“At the moment, I care little for the kingdom,” Allegra said furiously, fresh tears filling her eyes.
Queen Nor had a realization that shook the foundation of her long-suppressed maternal instinct. Her brow furrowed.
“You really love him, don’t you, Allegra?” she asked softly.
Allegra expelled a short but bitter laugh. “I’m surprised that you can recognize the emotion, Mother.” Allegra fixed the queen with an accusatory stare. “Have you ever really been in love?”
Nor was startled to find herself at a terrible loss for words. It was not a question that she’d ever been asked. The queen heard her own voice as if from a distance.
“No, Allegra. I’m afraid I have not.”
Nor saw Allegra’s face fall, the anger draining out of it. Her daughter’s disillusioned expression wounded the queen more
