Chapter 40
Betrayed by Blood~
It was evening, and I had just finished my chores for the day. All that was left was to deliver the bed linens to the King’s Chambers. As I shuffled across the yard, I glanced at the linens in my hand, eager to complete this task so I could rest in my room. The week had already been eventful, and I was exhausted. Walking into the pack house, I made my way towards the stairs that led to the hallway.
The hallways were quiet, except for the faint hum of voices in the distance. Ignoring the sounds, I walked up the stairs and turned down the corridor towards the King’s chambers.
My grip tightened on the linens as I reached the heavy double doors. Taking a deep breath, I raised my hand to knock softly.
No one answered.
Hesitating, my hand hovered over the door. Maybe they weren’t there, and I could just leave the linens and go.
Pushing the door open, I was stopped in my tracks by what I saw. The sharp sound of a harsh slap echoed through the room, followed by a low grunt of pain. Frozen in the doorway, I held my breath.
The King stood tall and angry, his hand raised and his face twisted in rage. The Queen staggered slightly, her cheek red and swelling.
"Stupid, ungrateful woman," the King growled. "Don’t test me again."
I didn’t dare move or breathe as his eyes briefly flickered towards the door. For a terrifying moment, I thought he had seen me. But then he turned and stormed past me without a second glance.
My legs felt like jelly, but I managed to step inside, my eyes falling on the Queen. She stood by the window now, one hand pressed lightly against her cheek. Her head tilted slightly, and to my shock, she chuckled softly.