The sound of Adam's quick footsteps as he walked quickly, his jaw tight and his fists clenched. When he reached the Queen's private chambers, two guards bowed and opened the massive golden doors.
Inside, Queen Sephora was pacing the floor. Her face was cold, her gown trailing behind her like fire. The moment she saw Adam, her eyes burned with fury.
"Mother, you called for me?" he said, trying to sound composed.
Before he could say another word, a sharp smack struck across his face. The sound echoed through the chamber. Adam stumbled back, his hand flying to his cheek in shock.
"How can you allow those brats to win against you!" the Queen's voice thundered. "You are the Crown Prince, yet you keep losing to a blind girl and that cursed brother of yours!"
Adam's breath came unsteady. "Mother…. "
"Don't you Mother me, Adam! I did not raise a fool!" she hissed. Her golden eyes gleamed with rage.
