Destroy Him

Chapter Five

Later that day, part of their travelling party.

In Giselle's apartments, Rue was already helping her mistress sort through the gowns she intended to take.

Jasvella, meanwhile, had joined her sister, looking over the selection of dresses spread across the bed.

"Surely, you do not intend to take all of these," she remarked, lifting a gown from the pile.

Giselle glanced at her.

"I have no idea how long it shall take us to settle into the palace."

"We are to be there for a month, Giselle, not the rest of our lives."

Giselle laughed softly.

"I would rather have too many gowns than discover that I have brought too few."

Jasvella shook her head, amused.

"Very well. I shall leave you to your packing."

She watched as Rue carefully folded another gown into the travelling trunk before turning her attention to her sister.

"Have you heard from Cole?"

Giselle's hands paused.

"Not yet."

"Not yet? Have you written to him?"

"Yes. I sent him a letter some time ago, but he has not replied."

Jasvella's expression became more serious.

"That is rather unlike him, is it not?"

Giselle lowered her eyes.

"I do not know. Perhaps he has been occupied with his duties. I should not like to assume anything."

"Have you any idea whether he knows about your marriage?"

Giselle shook her head.

"I have been rather hesitant to write to him about it. I do not know what to say, nor do I know how he would receive the news."

For a courteous greeting.

His gaze settled briefly on the young woman who appeared to be leading the pair.

Attention settling upon the young princess standing before him. He had to admit that she was remarkably beautiful.

There was an elegance about her appearance, from the graceful arrangement of her hair to the delicate features of her face.

Her beauty was striking without appearing affected, and he found himself momentarily impressed.

“Princess Giselle, I presume?” he asked.

Jasvella regarded him with mild amusement.

“I'm afraid you have mistaken me, Your Highness. I am Princess Jasvella. My .