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“His Majesty is preparing for the ceremony.” She emphasizes the title, a subtle reminder of the gulf between Griffin’s position and mine. “He has asked not to be disturbed.”

“Did he specifically say that, or are you just assuming?” I feel a hint of irritation. “What are you even doing here?”

Her smile doesn’t waver. “Perhaps you should focus on preparing yourself, Dr. Sorin. The ceremony tonight is quite formal. Do you even have appropriate attire?”

The barb hits its mark. I haven’t given any thought to what I’ll wear. After months of captivity in the same filthy clothes, fashion is the least of my concerns.

“Thank you for your concern,” I say coolly, “but I’ll manage.”

“I’m sure you will.” Her gaze sweeps over me dismissively. “Though I must wonder what Griffin sees in you. A human scientist with no understanding of our ways, our traditions.”

“I understand more than you think.”

“Do you?” She steps closer, her perfume overwhelming in the confined space. “Do you understand what it means to be queen of our people? To carry the weight of centuries of tradition?”

Each question feels like a slap. “I never asked to be queen.”

“No, but fate has chosen you, hasn’t it?” Her smile turns cruel. “For now, at least.”

Before I can respond, she turns and glides away, leaving me alone with my doubts.

Is she right? Am I foolish to think I could ever fit into Griffin’s world?

With a heavy heart, I make my way back to my mother’s and my cottage. The small structure feels more like home than any other part of the grand palace grounds, despite the months I spent away from it. As I push open the door, I’m greeted by the familiar scent of ginger and honey—my mother’s favorite tea.

“Maya, is that you?” my mother’s voice calls from the small sitting room. “Someone came by with a box for you.”

“Yes, it’s me, Mom.” I follow her voice and find her seated by the window, working on her knitting. She’s having one of her good days, her eyes clear and focused. “Where’s the box?” I ask.

“In your bedroom.”

I take off my sweater as I head down the hall.

It’s not one box but several. Heart pounding, I remove the lid of the largest one, and it reveals a lovely red dress with gold hemming at the base. Fingers trembling, I open the other boxes.

Shoes. Jewelry.

And a note.

I want to see you in this dress I chose for you. I want you to wear it when I announce to the kingdom who you are, when I take you in my arms and we dance.

My eyes grow wet, and I cover my mouth to muffle the gasping sob.

“Maya?” My mother’s worried voice sounds from the hallway. She enters my room. “Are you alright? What is it?”

“Nothing, Mom.”

But she sees the dress and sucks in her breath. “Is that for you?”

“Griffin seems to have sent it,” I murmur, feeling pleased. “I didn’t know what I would wear to his crowning ceremony, but he took care of it.” My smile fades as I study the gorgeous dress. “It’s too much.”

My mother glances at me. “You look troubled, sweetheart.” She sits down on the bed and pats the space beside her. “Come, sit with me.”

I sink down next to her, suddenly feeling like a child again, seeking comfort in my mother’s wisdom. “I don’t know what I’m doing anymore, Mom. He says I’m his fated mate. But I’m human. I don’t know anything about this world, not enough to stand by his side as his queen.”

She takes my hand, her skin papery and soft against mine. “He doesn’t seem worried about that. I’ve seen the way he looks at you.” I look down at her hands as she squeezes mine. “Firebird, not every man is like your father. You have to give love a chance. Closing your heart to even the idea of love is not what my brave daughter should be doing.”

My eyes flutter shut as my mother utters the words I’ve never spoken aloud. “It’s easier to be in control when your heart isn’t on the line, Mom. It’s easier to protect yourself.”