While King Adom settled and until the queens reached the reception room, I held Croana and buried my face in the hair at the back of her head.
Croana kept her face forward and gently stroked my head with one hand.
The nostalgic scent brought me peace. Sharle's hands rubbing the back of my neck felt good.
The Chancellor must have taken the hint. He folded his arms, closed his eyes, and stayed quiet.
Suddenly Sharle behind me put both hands on my shoulders, brought her mouth to one ear, and spoke.
"Lady Beige's rescue confirmed. No wounded."
"Thank you, Sharle."
I lifted my face from Croana's hair, turned it sideways, smiled at Sharle, and thanked her.
Done… with this, the matter was truly settled. After that only the trick of the "makeup box" remained.
The news must have reached Croana's ear too. She tipped her body a little, turned her face to me, and smiled.
