The tray felt heavier than usual as I carefully balanced it, navigating the grand staircase of our home. I'd insisted on bringing Alaric his lunch myself, despite Mrs. Pembroke's protests that it was hardly a duchess's duty. But how could I explain that with my husband ill, I needed to do something—anything—useful for him?
"Isabella! Do be careful on those stairs."
I looked up to see Queen Seraphina Valerius standing at the landing, her elegant pale blue gown a stark contrast to the simple day dress I wore.
"Your Majesty," I greeted, nearly missing a step in surprise. "I didn't realize you were visiting today."
She moved quickly to my side, steadying the tray with one hand. "Let me help you with that. And please, when will you finally call me Seraphina when we're alone?"
I smiled despite my worry for Alaric. "Old habits. What brings you here unannounced?"
