Chapter 191
Annalise
The sky outside was the softest shade of grey, light seeping through the windows like it was afraid to disturb the quiet. I sat on the small cushioned bench in the corner of the chamber, my hands cradling a warm mug of tea Helen had placed there minutes ago. The scent of herbs and a hint of honey curled in the air, calming my nerves, but not my guilt.
Helen sat across from me, eyes filled with gentle concern and a heart far too big for someone so small.
She had been patient. Kind. And very, very persistent.
“Where did you go, my Queen?” she asked softly, her fingers twisting the hem of her apron as her eyes searched mine. “What happened in the realm? And this child… what truly happened to you?”
Her voice wasn’t pressing. It didn’t carry judgment or expectation. J
