Chapter 253: Sage Nightshade
Juniper offered a respectful bow to the Queen before gracefully taking her seat in the chair provided.
"Dominick has expressed his wish to formally marry you," Queen Mabel began. "The Alpha King has already spoken with your father and reached an agreement. You’ll move into the palace starting tomorrow. As you and Dominick are already mated, it’s only right you begin living together. However, due to the current political tensions, the official wedding ceremony may be delayed."
"I understand, Your Majesty," Juniper replied, keeping a warm smile on her lips. "I am willing to come to the palace and live with Prince Dominick as his mate."
The Queen’s expression softened slightly. "That’s good to hear. I have high hopes for you, Juniper. My eldest son has once again chosen the woman who was destined for him... while my youngest—" her tone dipped into disappointment "—continues to disregard my wishes."
Juniper remained silent, though she couldn’t help but feel surprised that the Queen still harbored a cold attitude toward Amelie. The contrast between how she spoke of her sons was telling.
"The palace doesn’t impose many rules, only a few that I trust you’re already familiar with," Queen Mabel added, returning to her composed demeanor.
Juniper nodded respectfully, taking in every word with quiet attentiveness.
"It’s nearly evening. You should return now and prepare," the Queen said, offering a dismissive but polite gesture.
Juniper rose from her seat and offered another bow before exiting the chamber.
As she stepped outside, her eyes immediately found Dominick waiting for her just beyond the corridor. He stood tall, hands folded behind his back, but the moment he saw her, his posture relaxed, his gaze warming as their eyes met.
Juniper approached Dominick with quick, eager steps. "Shall we go?"
He nodded slightly, his eyes scanning her face. "Hmm. What did Mother say?"