"Why are you working in the kitchen?" Mabel's voice rang. Amelie lifted her head in surprise. The maids immediately bowed to the Queen, and one of them rushed forward to take the ladle from Amelie's hands.
"You're in the final stage of your pregnancy," Mabel said firmly. "You must be careful. Come with me. I need to speak with you."
Amelie simply nodded, setting aside her task, and followed the Queen out of the kitchen.
As they crossed the grand hallway, Gabriel appeared from the opposite direction. The moment his eyes landed on them, he was at Amelie's side, his hand closing protectively around hers.
"Where are you taking my mate?"
Mabel halted, turning to face him.
"If you want an apology from my wife, if you wish to humiliate her yet again, then stop here," Gabriel said. "I won't allow it anymore. Please… don't hurt Amelie again." It was not just a request anymore, but a pleading.
