The Mad Princess and the Dying Prince novel Chapter 16

The main reason was the queen mother's tacit approval. Years ago, she had hinted that as soon as Prince Jareth returned to the Royal Capital, a royal betrothal would be decreed.

Consequently, Lord Marquis and his entire family practically considered the match a done deal.

Upon receiving the queen mother's summons, Seraphina Marquis dared not delay. She quickly dressed in her finest gowns and hurried to the palace.

Pressing a small pouch of silver coins into the guiding maid's hand, she asked in a hushed tone, "Did Her Grace summon only me today, or are there other ladies attending?"

"Only you, Lady Marquis," the maid replied. Squeezing the heavy pouch of coins and knowing Lady Marquis was always generous, the servant tactfully added, "Word is that Prince Jareth has returned to the city. He should be arriving at the palace shortly, which is why Her Grace called for you."

"Jareth has returned?"

Seraphina was overwhelmed with a mixture of shock and delight, a vivid flush creeping up her neck.

The queen mother had summoned her specifically because Prince Jareth was coming?

Remembering how the queen mother had held her hand years ago, praising her radiant complexion and declaring her a match made in heaven for the prince, Seraphina's heart began to hammer against her ribs.

The queen mother was surely going to announce their betrothal, wasn't she?

It seemed all those years of painstakingly selecting extravagant festival gifts and mastering the queen mother's favorite arts—brewing fine floral wines and delicate embroidery—had not been in vain. The queen mother truly favored her.

Suppressing her excitement, Seraphina entered the chamber and offered a flawless, deep curtsy.

"Your Grace," she murmured respectfully.

"Rise," the queen mother said, waving a hand. She appraised Seraphina with a benevolent smile. "It has been some time, child. You grow more luminous by the day, beautiful as a spring rose."

Seraphina dipped her head modestly. "It is Your Grace who possesses true beauty, as magnificent as a royal bloom."

"You always know exactly what to say," the queen mother chuckled. "You are sixteen this year, Seraphina? Lord Marquis and his wife must be growing anxious. Any other girl your age would have been promised to a lord long ago."

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