As Aldrich’s entourage led us in, an ocean of eyes washed over us in a tidal wave, and there was a roar of applause. Despite our concerns, I was glad Aldrich was receiving the recognition he deserved. He seemed to perk up at the positive reception, flashing his women melting smile. Emily, Elias, and Benjamin stood up, but seemingly reluctantly. They applauded with blank expressions. I accidentally met Emily’s gaze and she glared at me, her perfect lips curled in disgust. They looked hateful, but not menacing. I took a deep breath.
The King and Queen sat upon their thrones, watching us with a smile. The love the Queen had for her son overpowered any loathing she had for me; she seemed genuinely happy.
The ballroom was glorious, unlike anything I had ever seen before. The
