For a long heartbeat, Anna could not move. The older woman's posture was as regal as ever. Behind her stood two tall bodyguards in black suits, their expressions unreadable, their presence imposing.
Slowly, the Queen's gaze met with Anna's. Her eyes traveled from head to toe, lingering with a look of disgust.
"Am I allowed to come in or not?" The question was calm, but with an undercurrent tone of irritation.
Anna stepped back from the door to let her in.
The Queen turned to her guards. "Stay outside."
Without hesitation they obeyed, positioning themselves on either side of the door, their eyes fixed ahead. Anna closed the door behind her, and followed the Queen in.
She stood awkwardly for a moment as the Queen's eyes drifted around the apartment.
"Please," Anna said quietly, gesturing toward the couch.
The Queen lowered herself into the seat as though it belonged to her. She reached into her handbag and withdrew a check, placing it on the coffee table with precise care.
