Page 36 of The Midnight King
The King folds up the cloth we used and sets it aside casually as the Prince comes down the aisle.
“She didn’t come.” Brantley’s voice is strained, distressed.
“Who?”
“The girl, Celinda. The blond one with the lovely dresses, the one who is kind and listens so well. She isn’t here tonight.”
“Isn’t she always late?” asks the King.
“Yes, but this is later than usual. I don’t think she’s coming. Her sisters are here, but not her.”
“Perhaps one of her sisters would be pleasant company.”
“Perhaps.” The Prince sounds deflated. “I’ll dance with them, I suppose. But I’ll tell them theymustbring her tomorrow night, by order of the future monarch.”
“I’m sure they will love that,” says the King dryly.
The Prince’s footsteps draw closer. “Have you been watering the ankra lily?”
“Oh… yes.”
“No, no, no!” protests the Prince. “I told you not to overwater it! Only once a week, remember?”
“Why, yes, of course. I suppose I was distracted.”
“You’ve been behaving oddly lately,” the Prince says.
“Have I? I didn’t notice.”
“You’re avoiding me. Is it because of these confounded balls? Or the idea of me taking the crown? Do you not think I’ll be a capable ruler?”
“Of course you will,” replies his father. “But it’s an adjustment, you know—moving into a different phase of life. I suppose I’ve been hanging back to allow you full freedom in this matter of choosing your bride. I’m still not sure this is the best way to do it, but—”
“It’s what I wanted,” finishes the Prince. “A chance to see all the eligible ladies at once, talk to them, and quickly decide which one I want as my future companion and the mother of my heirs. I want to get it over with—there’s no sense dragging it out. And I appreciate you allowing me to make my choice in this way. I know it’s unconventional.”
The King chuckles. “When have I ever been one for convention?”
“Not often,” his son admits. “And even less so of late, if rumors around the palace are to be believed. There’s talk of youmissing meals, skipping important meetings, leaving your bed at night, holding impromptu court sessions for the public, and making odd judgments when they bring petitions before you. I must ask—are you quite well?”
“I’ve never been healthier.”
“Then it must be the other thing,” says the Prince tentatively. “The servants say that when you disappear, you’re visiting a woman.”
“That’s it,” says the King. “You’ve caught me.”
“Well, who is she?”
“I can’t tell you just yet. Perhaps at the feast, when you announce your bride, I will reveal my new mistress. Now why don’t you head back in and enjoy the ball? Find yourself a lovely, clever wife from among the women who showed up tonight.”
“Will you come with me?” asks Brantley. “I would like your opinion about a few of the girls.”
“Shouldn’t it be entirely your decision?”
“Yes, but you said you would give your opinion if I wished it.”
“Of course, son. Allow me to tidy a few things here, and I’ll join you in a moment.”
“Don’t delay,” replies the Prince. “I need you with me in this, Father.”