The grand double doors creaked open.
Gasps swept through the hall as Emperor Xander strode in not alone, but carrying Lady Lola Cavendish in his arms. The ladies of the court fell into a stunned hush, their wide eyes darting between one another as whispers stirred like leaves in the wind.
Of all the women he could choose… Why her?
"Look at that little whore in the emperor's arms," Sophia whispered, her voice laced with amusement.
Emily stifled a giggle. "I daresay she's enjoying every second."
Ava said nothing, her eyes fixed on the scene, unreadable.
Lola, for her part, felt her heart thud wildly in her chest. She tried to remain composed, but she was acutely aware of the powerful man carrying her. His features were impossibly perfect, sharp cheekbones, a strong jaw, lips that held more secrets than smiles. She'd only meant to observe him… and yet, she couldn't look away. If he noticed her gaze, he gave no sign. The emperor's fury smoldered hotter than a forge, and it consumed everything in his path except her.
He reached the front of the hall and gently placed her in a gilded chair, one hand lingering at her back before he turned to face the assembled women.
They bowed in unison.
"Your Highness," they chorused.
Xander did not return the greeting.
"I trust you've all heard of the incident in the east wing," he said, his voice like steel wrapped in velvet.
A hush fell so thick it could have strangled air.
"I will speak plainly. A venomous snake was found in my chambers, Lady Cavendish's quarters. Do not insult my intelligence by suggesting it wandered in by accident. This palace is guarded, sealed. Nothing enters without reason."
No one dared to speak. The emperor's tone made it clear that this was no longer a courtly affair, but a matter of treason.
"I will forgive this once. But should such a thing occur again…" he paused, his gaze cutting through the room like a blade. "I will see it as a direct attempt on the emperor's life and it will be treated as such."
A ripple of fear moved through the ladies, their fine gowns rustling as they shifted uncomfortably.
"Lady Calantha," Xander called.
A tall, poised woman stepped forward and bowed. "You summoned me, Your Highness."
"You are the head of the court ladies," he said curtly. "It is your duty to maintain order. I expect better discipline from those under your charge."
Calantha bowed her head, a polished smile gracing her lips. "Of course, Your Highness. This disgrace will not be repeated."
She turned her head slightly toward Lola, her eyes narrowing just enough for Lola to catch it. "On behalf of the ladies of the court, Lady Cavendish, I offer our sincerest apologies. I assure you, such a thing shall never happen again."
The smile she gave was a polished façade. Lola saw through it instantly.
Trouble.
There was something simmering behind Lady Calantha's gaze, something cold, calculating. Lola met her eyes without flinching.
Then came the final blow.
"As of this moment," Xander continued, his voice loud enough to silence every whisper, "Lady Cavendish will reside permanently in the east wing, my chambers. You will afford her the same respect due to me. Speak to her as you would speak to your queen."
A stunned silence fell.
The queen?
Had the emperor just…? Even Emily's mouth dropped open.
"Did you hear that?" Emily gasped, gripping Ava's arm.
"I heard," Ava murmured, eyes narrowed.
Sophia, eyes glittering, grinned. "This is going to be deliciously chaotic."
Lola stared at Xander, stunned. The queen? Her?
This could not be wise. It painted a target on her back, and every woman in this room now saw her as a rival not just for the emperor's favor, but for the crown.
She dared a glance at Lady Calantha.
The woman's face had gone utterly blank. No anger. No shock. Nothing.
That, Lola thought, was more terrifying than fury.
Before she could speak, Xander bent down, gathered her once again into his arms, and carried her from the hall without another word.
The doors closed behind them with a heavy thud.
And the whispers began to fly.