Chapter 227: A glimpse of the past 2
Thirty-three years ago
A menace. An absolute menace. I ask myself for the hundredth time if I regret taking this job as I watch a tiny figure with wild raven hair leap from one tree branch to another like an untamed monkey. My heart clenches with every jump, every reckless move, and I can already feel the headache forming behind my temples.
Mirelle, Princess Mirelle, is going to be the death of me.
Some passing servants pause to observe the spectacle, casting me sympathetic glances. I catch one of them whispering,
"Poor Joan," before hurrying along. Yes, poor Joan indeed. How did I go from grieving widow to glorified tree-climbing babysitter?
I sigh heavily, pinching the bridge of my nose in exasperation. The midday sun filters through the canopy of trees, casting dappled light onto the manicured lawns of the palace garden. The scent of fresh blooms drifts through the warm air, but even the peaceful atmosphere does little to calm my nerves.
"That’s it," I mutter under my breath. "I swear, if you don’t get down right now, Your Highness, I’m quitting my job!" My voice rises to a desperate yell, echoing through the garden.
There’s a beat of silence, and then, from an upside-down position high in the tree, a mischievous face peeks out. Long raven-colored hair, messy from her antics, sways with the movement. Green eyes—bright, sharp, and far too cunning for a child—sparkle with amusement.
"You can’t quit, Joan!" Mirelle’s squeaky little voice rings out, full of glee. "You love me too much!"
I turn away dramatically, my back to her, hoping this will finally coax her down. "That’s it. I’m leaving. I’m done," I declare loudly, taking a few steps toward the palace. I can almost hear her smirk from behind me.
But then—a scream.