Chapter 53
Leandro leaned back in his chair, his expression dark, while Thomas paced restlessly across the room. The tension between them was almost palpable as they discussed the recent events swirling around the family, particularly with Federico’s rising favour in their father’s eyes. Neither of them could shake the growing sense of bitterness and frustration.
“Federico’s becoming a problem,” Leandro muttered, tapping his fingers on the table. “It’s like he’s got everyone wrapped around his little finger. And now with Azalea…” He trailed off, shaking his head. “It’s sickening.”
Thomas nodded, his gaze hardening. “Father’s coddling him as usual. And ever since Azalea came into the picture, it’s like nothing else matters to him. I can’t even imagine what’s going through his mind.”
Just then, the door creaked open, and Bennett walked in, his usual confident stride carrying a hint of purpose. He gave them a faint smile, his eyes glinting with a mix of curiosity and mischief. “Well, if it isn’t the ever-dutiful Leandro and Thomas,” he greeted, sliding his hands into his pockets. “Always deep in thought about dear brother Federico, I presume?”
Leandro rolled his eyes, clearly unimpressed. “What do you want, Bennett?”
Bennett tilted his head, a sly grin forming on his lips. “Oh, nothing much. I simply thought it might interest you to know that you’re not alone in your feelings toward our beloved prince.” He paused, his gaze sweeping over them. “I’d say we have quite a bit in common.”
Thomas snorted, crossing his arms over his chest. “And why should we care what you think?”
“Because,” Bennett said, leaning forward slightly, “I know you both despise Federico just as much as I do. And… I also know you’ve been searching for a way to take him down a notch or two.”
Leandro narrowed his eyes, his suspicion evident. “What are you suggesting?”
“I’m suggesting an alliance,” Bennett replied smoothly, his voice dropping to a near whisper. “With my resources and your inside knowledge of the family, I believe we could find a way to… level the playing field, so to speak. Together, we’d have a far better chance of getting what we all want.”
Thomas exchanged a wary glance with Leandro before shaking his head. “No, thanks. We’re not interested in whatever scheme you’re plotting.”
Bennett’s eyes flashed with annoyance, but he kept his composure. “Suit yourselves. But I’m patient. I’ll be around if you ever change your mind.” He gave them a mocking bow and left the room, his footsteps echoing down the hall.
Leandro sighed heavily, rubbing his temples. “As much as I despise Federico… Bennett’s interference could make things even worse.”
Thomas nodded, his expression grave. “We need to be careful. Bennett may be our enemy’s enemy, but that doesn’t make him our friend.”
—
Meanwhile, Azalea was in her chambers, trying to distract herself with a book, but her mind kept drifting back to the events of the previous night. Just as she started to relax, the door swung open, and Ophelia strode in, her face set in a smug expression.
“Enjoying your newfound status, I see,” Ophelia sneered, her voice laced with disdain. “But don’t get too comfortable, Azalea. Being the king’s favoured daughter-in-law won’t save you from the truth.”
Azalea looked up, meeting Ophelia’s gaze with a steady calmness. “If you have something to say, Ophelia, just say it.”
Ophelia’s smile twisted, venomous. “Oh, I will. You’re nothing but an outsider here, Azalea. Don’t think for a moment that you belong. And as for Federico…” She leaned closer, her voice dripping with malice. “He may be fond of you now, but it won’t last. Men like him always find something better, something… more deserving.”
Azalea’s jaw tightened, but she refused to let Ophelia’s words rattle her. “Thank you for your concern, Ophelia,” she replied coolly. “But I’ll take my chances.”
Ophelia straightened, her eyes narrowing. “Fine. Ignore my warning. But remember, Azalea-when the time comes, you’ll be all alone.”
Before Azalea could respond, the door opened again, and Queen Selena entered, her regal presence commanding the room. She looked between Azalea and Ophelia, her brow furrowing slightly.
“What’s going on here?” she asked, her tone sharp.
Ophelia quickly masked her irritation, forcing a smile. “Nothing, Your Majesty. I was merely… reminding Azalea of her responsibilities.”
Selena’s gaze flicked to Azalea, then back to Ophelia. “Is that so? Because it sounded like you were doing more than ‘reminding’ her.” Her voice was firm, leaving no room for argument.
Ophelia’s smile faltered, and she gave a small, awkward nod. “Of course, Your Majesty. I’ll leave you both to your conversation.” With one last glare at Azalea, she exited the room, her steps quick and irritated.
Selena approached Azalea, her expression softening. “Are you alright, my dear?”
Azalea managed a small smile. “I’m fine, thank you, Your Majesty. Ophelia… she has her way of expressing herself.”
Selena chuckled a hint of amusement in her eyes. “That’s an understatement.” She paused, studying Azalea. “You know, Azalea, being in this family isn’t easy. Many will try to tear you down, simply because you’re different.”
Azalea nodded, feeling a surge of gratitude for Selena’s kindness. “Thank you, Your Majesty. I’ll keep that in mind.”
Selena placed a gentle hand on her shoulder. “Remember, Azalea, you’re not alone. And as long as you stand by Federico, you’ll have a place here.”
Azalea felt a warmth in her chest at Selena’s words, a reassurance that steadied her. “Thank you, Your Majesty.”
Selena smiled before leaving, and Azalea sat back, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. She wasn’t about to let Ophelia or anyone else shake her resolve. But she knew queen Selena was up to no good.
—
Across the palace, Lady Margaret was waiting in the foyer, her gaze fixed on the doorway. When Maya entered, Margaret’s eyes narrowed, suspicion evident on her face.
“Where have you been?” Lady Margaret asked, her tone sharp.
Maya paused, surprised by her mother’s questioning. “I just… needed some fresh air,” she replied, her voice careful.
Margaret’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Fresh air? In the middle of the night?”
Maya bit her lip, a hint of frustration flashing in her eyes. “I’m an adult, Mother. I don’t have to account for every step I take.”
Lady Margaret’s eyes hardened. “Be that as it may, you’re part of this family. And as long as you’re under this roof, you’ll be mindful of how your actions affect all of us.”
Maya looked away, her jaw clenching. “Noted.”
Margaret sighed, her tone softening slightly. “Maya, I only want what’s best for you. This… reckless behavior will only lead to trouble.”
Maya swallowed her frustration, nodding silently. “I understand, Mother.”
Lady Margaret gave her a final, scrutinizing look before turning and walking away, leaving Maya alone in the grand hall. As she stood there, Maya’s thoughts drifted back to Bennett and his ultimatum.