Forever Claimed

by Shreffler, Betty

  Matheas’s stare matches my own.

  “I won’t spoil it,” Matheas responds, his gaze still set on me. “No need to excite her. This week has been taxing enough on her.”

  Theore glances between the two of us, likely noticing the tension tightening the air between us.

  “I believe congratulations are in order,” Theore says to Matheas. “It’s quite a feat for an arms man to be given a position fit for a royal.”

  Looking at Theore then Matheas, my brows furrow.

  “Your congratulations are appreciated, Prince Theore. It may be unorthodox, but Queen Fiora knows what’s best for Iowan and Anauka.”

  “Certainly, she does. It was a surprise to us in Fillia, is all. I’m sure Queen Fiora knows exactly what she’s doing. To put any of her royal suitors in the role of Royal Proxy of Iowan would be risking the chance those men would overtake her throne and take Anauka and Iowan for themselves. Her decision makes complete sense, being a future ruler myself. She’s as wise as she is beautiful. I imagine her choice was unsettling for some, however.”

  “Quite unsettling,” I reply, staring at Matheas.

  “Then she’s a fortunate Queen to have both of you supporting her. Excuse my boldness, King Ryker, but many royal bachelors envy you.”

  Prince Theore sets his empty wine glass on a tray passing by and waves at another royal on the other side of the parlor.

  “Excuse me, gentlemen. It’s been a pleasure.”

  Theore leaves and the tension between Matheas and me thickens so heavily, I can feel it on my skin like a layer of soapy residue.

  “Can you excuse us, Kendrick?”

  Kendrick folds his arms, leaning back on the heels of his feet.

  “No, by the looks of it, you both are moments from entering into a brawl. I’m here to stay and make sure you two don’t make complete fools of yourselves.”

  My tongue smacks against my cheek in irritation, but there’s no point in arguing. He’s right.

  “She made you her Royal Proxy of Iowan?”

  “She did,” he replies, his tone unapologetic.

  There’s a touch of smugness in his voice and expression as though he enjoys being privy to information I’m not, and as much as I hate it, it is the situation. He’s had the advantage of several days with Fiora, being her confidant and lover. The memory of the video Belore sent me replays, stabbing me in the gut as I picture the pleasured expression on her face when she and Matheas laid together. My fists clench at my sides, jealousy coiling in my stomach, but I don’t react to it. If Matheas and I need to work things out, it’s better we do it in private, and somewhere Fiora can’t see us unleash.

  “When I meet with my fiancée tomorrow, I’ll be interested to hear the details of her choice.”

  “Your fiancée?” Matheas exhales noisily, the sound a mix of being both humored and irritated. “I was under the impression you ended the engagement.”

  “This might be disappointing to you, but I have no intention of letting Fiora go. I love her.”

  Matheas lowers his voice further, but his chin remains high.

  “Just remember what I said then, because you can’t take what already belongs to me.”

  Stepping forward, I cut the space between us and lower my voice.

  “Don’t think what Fiora and I share is something that’s easily forgotten. Her love for me is just as strong as her love for you. Your reaction to seeing me gave away your fear of that. It’s why Fiora hasn’t publicly announced an end to our engagement. She doesn’t want it to end any more than I do.”

  Matheas doesn’t back down, and as much as it irritates me, I also respect the man’s bravado.

  “The difference between you and me is I’m willing to do anything to satisfy her and make her happy while you want her all for yourself. It can’t work like that. Try to get rid of me and that’ll be the quickest way to lose her.”

  Matheas turns on his heel and strolls out of the parlor. Our intense, quiet conversation has drawn the attention of several royals. They’re staring at me with curiosity written all over their faces. Kendrick shrugs a shoulder and speaks low enough others can’t hear him.

  “What do you think of her making him Royal Proxy?”

  Turning toward the window, I place my elbow on the frame, running a thumb across my bottom lip as I watch Fiora’s figure in the distance.

  “That he won’t be at her side day in and day out like I thought he would. There’s an obvious political reason why she chose him, but they don’t know what we do. I need to know what is going on inside that beautiful mind of hers.”

  CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

  FIORA

  Walking along the palace horse stable, I breathe in the scent of leather, hay, and horses. My shoulders drop, my body relaxing. Up ahead, the veterinarian is running his hands along Artax’s legs, checking for signs of swelling or heat. Satisfied, he motions for the trainer to walk him back and forth. At the sight of me, Artax whinnies and ignores the trainer’s efforts. With my signal, the trainer releases him. Artax trots to me, pushing his muzzle into my chest. Leaning my head on his, I pet his face and neck, and he nickers, pleased with my arrival. Taking over the process, I walk him back and forth, ensuring he doesn’t favor any of his legs. With the vet’s approval, the trainer saddles him for a light warmup.

  Leaving the stables, I return to the palace to prepare for the race and festival.

  “My Queen.” Ria greets me as I’m passing through the entry hall.

  “Yes?”

  Her long skirt fabric brushes against mine as we walk side-by-side.

  “I’ve hired your royal attendants. Should you approve, I’d like to have them begin their new assignments today.” Her voice is airy, filled with enthusiasm.

  “You seem pleased with your choice. Who are my new attendants?”

  “These ladies were eager to work for you specifically. They nearly begged me to hire them in hopes of being in your service.”

  Stopping at the bottom of the grand staircase, I meet her eyes, curiosity tightening my features.

  “What are their names?”

  “Elisa Morthrope from the Free territory and Kaya Sartell from the Iowan territory. They were brought here with Matheas and Pollo from the Iowan palace. They feel indebted to you, especially Elisa, but she would not say specifically why, only that you saved her from anymore suffering.”

  Several emotions wash over me, the first being relief that the women were saved and found refuge here in Anauka. The second is my concern with how they must be feeling in a new territory with no family or friends after the horrific experiences they suffered.

  “Are they here in the palace?”

  “Yes, I have them waiting in your sitting room.”

  Taking Ria’s hand, I give it squeeze.

  “I approve of your choice to hire them. Please have them brought to my suite. I need to dress for the festival.”

  “Will do, my Queen.” Her pretty face brightens as her cheeks swell. With a swish of her skirt, she leaves me to notify the women of their new positions.

  It’s only minutes later the two women join me in my suite. Upon entering, their eyes sweep the room, taking in every detail with awe. Smiling at them, I gesture for the women to take a seat on the loveseat opposite my sitting chairs. In the center is a table with fresh tea, fruit, and Anaukin cake.

  “Ladies, please help yourself to the refreshments.”

  In worn clothing and dirty shoes, they carefully step over my rug, attempting to minimize any residue their shoes may leave behind. Huddled next to one another, they watch me with amazement, their lips parted and eyes focused.

  “We’re honored to be in your service, my Queen,” Elisa tells me. “My words can never express how grateful I am,”—she points to herself and Kaya—“how grateful we are you’ve given us this opportunity.”

  Pouring water for each of them, I hand them the glasses, and they blush.

  “I’m sorry, my Queen. We should be pouring y
ou a glass.”

  “There is no need for apologies. I’m sure Ria has apprised you of your roles, what they entail and shared how I prefer to do many things for myself.”

  “She did, yes. It’s something we admire about you.”

  “Thank you for the kind words.” Despite their ruffled and worn clothing, their hair is well kept and their bodies clean, piquing my curiosity. “I’m so pleased to discover both of you found refuge here in Anauka. Ria tells me you came here with Pollo and Matheas. Where have you been staying since you arrived?”

  “Pollo and Matheas set us up in temporary lodging and paid for the first month.” Elisa glances down at her feet, fidgeting uncomfortably. “Belore did not pay us while we were in his palace. We have not received monetary value in some time, and what we do have is very little.”

  My heart warms at how thoughtful and caring that act was for both men. Clicking the screen on my soul band, I raise the digital monitor and swipe to the area I need.

  “Please raise your soul bands,” I instruct.

  With flushed cheeks, they follow my order, and I make the monetary value transfer. Drawing their arms back, they both have tears in their eyes.

  “That is a full week’s salary for each of you. From here on, Ria will attend to your payments.”

  “My Queen,” Kaya struggles to speak as she holds back tears. “You barely know us, and you’ve been so incredibly kind.”

  “Kindness is the second greatest gift besides love,” I say aloud, remembering Grand Nina’s words of wisdom.

  Tears drip onto Kaya’s lap, and her shoulders slump as she drops her face into her hands. Quiet sobs escape her between apologies. Elisa wraps an arm around her, hugging her tight. It’s obvious how close these two women are, both having suffered the same abuse from Belore.

  “There’s no need to apologize.” Coming forward, I rest on my knees in front of them, gathering each one of their hands. “You both have been through a great amount of suffering, and it will take a long time for those wounds to heal.”

  “You suffered too,” Elisa whimpers.

  “It’s true. I’ll bear the emotional scars of his abuse, just as you will, but he hasn’t broken any of us. We’re all here, living, striving for a better life. I’m very pleased you ladies chose to come to my palace and offer your skills. I believe you’ll be happy here, and I can guarantee you’ll be safe.”

  Kaya’s red puffy eyes stare into mine as I wipe tears from her cheek. In her pretty green eyes is a deep cavern of sorrow, but among that heartache, I see a glimmer of hope.

  “You truly are one of the most beautiful people I’ve met besides Elisa.” She sniffles, wiping her cheeks dry. “Thank you for giving us a position in the palace and for welcoming us without judgement. Being Belore’s mistress was not something we willingly chose to be.”

  “I feared that was the situation for all of you.” Nerves bundle in my belly as I remember the third mistress. “What happened to Ariana?”

  A slow smile tugs at Elisa’s lips.

  “She was able to move in with family.”

  “I’m pleased to hear it.”

  Elisa rubs Kaya’s back and both women sit straighter, showing more confidence as I stand to my feet.

  “How can we help you prepare for the festival?” Elisa asks.

  “I’m skilled at styling hair and applying makeup,” Kaya shares.

  “Thank you, ladies. I’ll need three outfits. A slender gown for my public address at the beginning ceremonies, a riding outfit, and a comfortable yet polished outfit to wear during the festival.”

  Their eyes widen with excitement and realization.

  “You’ll be one of the riders?”

  Sharing my secret draws my lips into a playful smirk.

  “That’ll be our secret.”

  The women grin, glancing at one another, then back at me.

  “You’re going to give those men a run for their money,” Elisa proclaims, her voice rising in delight.

  “That’s my intention.”

  The women stand and follow as I lead them to the wardrobe.

  “Please choose a gown for me. Something appropriate for a public address that represents Anauka. I’ll gather the rest, then we can begin hair and makeup. I’ll need you to put the other two outfits in a bag and bring them to the arena. I have a Queen’s suite where I will change and prepare for the race. Take my bag to that room inside the arena and wait for me to join you after my public address. After the race, I’ll need you for hair, makeup, and to change again. After that, you’ll be dismissed to enjoy the festival while I participate in the dinner with the riders and their royal sponsors.”

  “Understood,” Elisa replies, her expression confident. “We’ll be attentive to your schedule,” she promises.

  “I appreciate it.”

  Elisa reaches for the black leather bag and lays it out on the nearest flat surface. Both women go to the side of my wardrobe where the gowns are and begin sorting through them as I gather my riding gear.

  “This is gorgeous,” Kaya gushes behind me.

  The women withdraw a blush dress from the closet with a sheer lace top and sleeves, a heart shaped bodice, fitted waist, and mermaid skirt. Around the waist is a red sash with the Anaukin emblem emblazoned in gold designs throughout the red fabric.

  “This is the dress,” Kaya grins.

  “I agree.”

  Matching their happy smiles, I gesture to the back of my blouse. Kaya keeps hold of the gown while Elisa moves my hair to the side and unbuttons the back of my blouse. Once undressed, I slip into the gown as Kaya places the rest of the clothes and shoes I gathered into the bag. Leaving the wardrobe, I sit at the vanity and patiently wait while Kaya styles my hair in long wavy tresses and applies a flattering amount of makeup. As we’re beginning to leave, the women seem to get jittery, fussing over their clothing.

  “My Queen,” Elisa begins hesitantly. “I’m afraid our clothing isn’t fit to be in the company of our Queen while in public. Especially not for an occasion as important as the Anaukin Spirit Festival.”

  Glancing at the frayed fabric of Kaya’s dress and the tear in Elisa’s skirt, I understand their concern, especially with this being their first day in public as my royal attendants.

  “Down the hall, in my old bedroom, I have some clothing and shoes still in the wardrobe. There should be something in there to fit you both. You’re welcome to keep the outfit you choose.”

  “Thank you for everything, my Queen. We’ll be better prepared in the coming days, I assure you,” Kaya tells me.

  “I have no doubt, ladies.” I gesture toward the exit of my room. “I’ll meet you in the arena suite.”

  Coming down the stairs, I find Pollo waiting by the entrance doors, playfully tapping his soul band.

  “You’re late, my Queen.”

  Chuckling, I release the train of my gown, the fabric sweeping the tile floor as it spreads out behind me.

  “Did Ria inform you she hired my royal attendants?”

  Pollo’s smile brightens the room, his shiny white teeth visible between his split lips.

  “Of course, and I’m pleased to hear who the women are.”

  “That’s why I’m late. I spent some time with them before dressing.”

  “I understand.” Touching my elbow, he gestures toward the front doors. “Your procession is waiting for you. Do your attendants know to bring your personal effects?”

  “Yes.”

  “Excellent. Are you ready to proceed?”

  “I am, but I expected Matheas to join me.”

  “He’s already at the arena. He’s with Sederick doing a security sweep. He’ll join you just before your public address.”

  “Thank you.”

  Pollo escorts me to the extravagantly decorated horse drawn carriage covered in rose flower arrangements and bows. It’ll lead the parade into the festival and arena, followed by the riders who will join the parade as we pass the stables. As the carriage nears them
, my eyes follow the lineup of horses and riders, their faces covered in an array of colorful masks. Excitement skitters across my flesh, leaving goosebumps behind. The mystery of the riders has made this race more thrilling. Even more, no one will know I will be among them. I’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the challenge of other riders without them holding back.

  The parade enters the festival gate, and I’m stunned at how many people have come to attend. The festival road is bursting with people waving, children cheering, and vendor tents galore. Scents of breads, meats, and sweet desserts waft through the warm air. Above us, the sky is painted a baby blue with the sun seeping through patches of white puffy clouds. It’s a beautiful day for a festival, and I’m grateful it’s turned out so magnificently.

  Arriving at the arena, Pollo steps down first, giving me his hand to assist me down from the carriage. Placing my hand in his elbow, he escorts me to the raised stadium. Atop it, Sederick, Matheas, and several arms men are waiting for me. Seeing Matheas instantly adds to my joy. Stepping to the center, I stand at the podium, thanking the people of Anauka for joining the first annual Anaukin Spirit Festival. At the end of my speech, I announce the time the horse race will begin. With the arena already full, viewers squeeze onto the walkways, eager for the highlight of our festival.

  Leaving the stadium, I disappear inside the arena with Pollo and Matheas at my side. The raised stadium will remain in the center and be transformed into a shaded VIP area for the royal sponsors of the riders. They’ll be too distracted by the performance of their horses to notice my absence.

  Entering the arena suite, I’m pleased to find Kaya and Elisa waiting for me, both in dress pants and nice blouses, complemented by newer shoes.

  “You look lovely, ladies.”

  With beaming smiles, they stand by my gear, everything neatly laid out. At the vanity, they have fresh water, hair products, and makeup set out. I’m impressed with their care and attentiveness. I knew Ria wouldn’t have hired them if they hadn’t proven it already.

  Elisa is the first to step up, ready to assist me with undressing. Matheas winks at Elisa and fills the space she intended to.