The Impending Night by Jon Monson

Author:Jon Monson [Monson, Jon]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2018-12-13T22:00:00+00:00

22

Yes, Madam Esmerelda. Of course, Madam Esmerelda,” Sophie whispered to herself as she folded linens, her mind refusing to move on from the verbal beating her new taskmaster had just delivered.

Her new sleeping quarters were absolutely stunning. Thick rugs covered hardwood floors while oil paintings graced the walls. A massive four-poster bed was hers and hers alone. She had never even dreamt of having her own bed, and now this entire room was hers to enjoy—that is, when she wasn’t working or being berated by Madam Esmerelda.

“It sounds like someone hasn’t exactly taken a shining to her new mentor,” a voice sounded from behind, and Sophie jumped.

Prince Tomas stood in her doorway, that same smile gracing his face. Sophie had to stop herself from wincing as her eyes caught sight of the wounds covering his countenance. The young man didn’t seem to mind, and he bounded into her room.

“Oh, I didn’t realize—how long have you been standing there?” Sophie asked, the words sticking in her mouth.

“Long enough,” Tomas chuckled. “And don’t worry—I wouldn’t dream of telling Esmerelda that you’re less than happy with her treatment of you. She wouldn’t really be surprised, though. From what I’ve heard, at least half the palace’s staff would love to have a real shouting match with her.”

“I—uh,” Sophie stumbled, absolutely unsure how to respond. The heir to the throne of Margella was in her room, gossiping with her as if they’d been friends for years.

“Oh, sorry,” the Prince smiled, offering his hand. “I haven’t ever properly introduced myself.”

“I don’t think the Crown-Prince needs any introduction,” Sophie replied, giving him a small bow.

“Well then, I at least need to properly express my gratitude,” Tomas said, bowing and kissing Sophie’s hand. “If it weren’t for your impeccable timing, I probably wouldn’t have survived to see the sunrise.”

“Right, yes—my…timing,” Sophie said, her words trailing off before she realized where this conversation was going. “Prince Tomas, I’d love for you to stay and chat, but I have so much laundry to fold.”

“Yes, I can see that,” Tomas said, smiling as his eyes found the remaining three pillowcases that had not yet been folded. “However, I’m here on a very special assignment. My father would like to see you in his personal study, and he has asked me to accompany you. I’m assuming you don’t know the way.”

“That would be lovely,” Sophie replied, unsure of how to avoid discussing exactly why she had been able to save the prince.

“Well then, let’s not waste any time,” Tomas smiled, offering her his arm. “Father is rather impatient and hates to be kept waiting.”

Sophie took the young man’s arm, her own trembling as she did so. For the second time this day, she found herself being escorted through the palace by men far beyond her station.

“So, tell me young Sophie,” Tomas said after a moment of walking in silence, his smile growing wider, “do you often wander through the hedge maze near sunset?”

“Not as often as I would like,” Sophie answered. It

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