Ziana’s POV 3 1/2 years later
“Sh*t.” I mumble as I stub my toe on the staircase.
“Ziana, is that you?” I hear from the Queen’s office on the second floor of the castle. It’s four thirty in the morning and I am currently sneaking in. Curse my big toe for not complying with the plan.
I look to the right and see that my mother’s office door is open with a small lamp on, emitting a soft glow. That soft glow is quickly dimmed as she steps into view. Her arms crossed, grey eyes showing disapproval, and one perfectly shaped dark eyebrow raised.
“Yea, mom. It’s me. What are you doing up so early?” I ask quietly to ensure nobody else wakes.
“I had some last minute plans to go through for the meeting today. It’s the best time to do that since your brother likes to wake up at an unholy hour.” S
