Chapter 24
The grand dining room of the palace was as imposing as it was beautiful. Long, ornate tables stretched across the room, filled with platters of fruit, bread, and fine meats. The air smelled of fresh herbs and spices, a testament to the royal kitchen’s excellence. Yet, despite the splendor, there was an underlying tension in the air that made Azalea’s stomach churn as she stepped into the room.
Azalea entered with Vick, her steps hesitant but measured. She immediately noticed Federico and Maya at the far end of the room, standing together near the head of the table. They were deep in conversation, their heads closed as if nothing else in the room mattered. Azalea’s chest tightened at the sight, but she reminded herself of the nature of their marriage—this was a contract, not a
