"My apologies, Your Majesty. I came as soon as I received..."
"I didn't call you to grovel," Ellora cut in, voice light but cold. "I wanted to see the girl who's managed to tame a Blackthorne."
Liora blinked. "I haven't..."
"Don't lie to me." Ellora turned, her eyes sharp. "Lucien would've killed to keep his distance from any woman bearing the title of concubine. Yet he defends you in court. Hands you weapons. Sends Beatrice to tend to your needs."
So the Queen knew. Everything.
"You want something from me," Liora said carefully.
Ellora smiled. "Smart. I admire that. Then let me be direct. The nobles in court want Lucien removed from succession entirely. Not just disgraced, but discarded."
"And you?"
"I want what benefits me," Ellora said, stepping closer. "Keep him tethered, distracted. Loyal to you, and I can protect you both."
Liora's lips parted. "And if I refuse?"
"You'll find yourself back where you came from. Or worse."
