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I repeat the curtsy, praying my magical disguise holds true. “The pleasure is mine, Your Highness.”

Kira eagerly tugs me to sit between her and Audrey at the table laden with delicate porcelain cups and flaky pastries. A fragrant floral tea steams from the pot as Audrey pours me a cup.

“Tell us, what is it like being a witch?” Kira asks around a mouthful of cream-filled puff pastry. A bit of powdered sugar clings to her lip.

I stir a spoonful of honey into my tea as I consider my response. “In many ways, not so different from anyone else,” I say carefully. “Magic runs in my bloodline. It allows me to connect to the elements and channel their energy. I can sense magic in most thingsand use it to create others. I enjoy the challenge of creating something new from it.”

Kira’s emerald eyes widen. “That’s amazing! What’s your favorite spell?”

I can’t help a small smile at her girlish enthusiasm. “Well, healing magic has always come most naturally to me. Like when I healed Prince Draven after…” I trail off, unsure if I’ve said too much.

But Vespera only nods sagely. “Yes, Draven mentioned you tended to him with remarkable skill. He arrived home quite… restored despite his ordeal.”

I duck my head, cheeks warming. Of course the queen would notice her son returned satiated. I’m half surprised her eyes haven’t glanced at my neck for signs of previous puncture wounds.

Clearly intrigued, Audrey leans forward. “We are most impressed by your arcane abilities, Lady Thorn. It seems the fates smile upon Draven to gift him such a singular mate.”

I toy nervously with my teacup under their intent stares. My magic bonding us was involuntary. How to explain that without revealing too much?

“Please, no need to call me lady. The attraction was… instant and profound,” I hedge, “but much between us remains unclear.”

That, at least, is no falsehood.

Vespera touches my hand gently. “Do not fret, my dear. In time, all shall be revealed between you. Not all of us are blessed with a gods given mate.”

“Tell us, how did you come to realize Prince Draven was your fated mate?” Audrey asks.

I sip my tea and choose my words with care. “It was… an unexpected epiphany during our acquaintance.”

Vespera nods sagely. “The fated bond is exceptionally rare, even among our kind who mate eternally.”

I merely incline my head, unwilling to reveal more.

Perhaps sensing my reticence, Audrey smoothly changes topics, mentioning the upcoming Winter Festival.

“You simply must attend the ball with Draven!” Kira exclaims. “Oh, we’ll have such fun together picking out gowns and masks for the occasion.”

I glance down self-consciously at my simple garb. “You are too kind, but I fear I have nothing suitable-”

“Nonsense. We will outfit you in style.” Audrey gives me an assessing look. “I know just the shops we must visit for a wardrobe fit for a prince’s escort.”

Their graciousness leaves me touched but conflicted.

I turn inquiries about my past deftly back to them, learning of castle intrigues and romances. Kira, in particular, proves a font of lively court gossip.

20

Thorn

Ikneel beside the nest of blankets where Luna still slumbers, her breaths slow and even. The gash on her flank has closed thanks to my healing magic, though it will be some time before she regains her strength. I brush my fingertips over her soft fur. Our connection remains intact.

“Rest easy, my friend,” I murmur. “I will return soon.”

Rising, I make my way to the door at the sound of a cheerful rap. I open it to find Princess Audrey practically bouncing on the balls of her feet with Draven standing behind her, hands in his pockets.

“Hello,” Draven says, a small dimple appearing in his cheek. “We’ve come to escort you to the Winter Festival, if you’ll oblige us.”

“Oh, please say yes! We talked about it at tea, and we’re free this evening.” Audrey claps her hands excitedly. “It’s simply magical this time of year. We’ll show you all the best shops and treats.”