Ruby lifted a strawberry from the silver tray before her, pressing it to her lips as she took a slow bite. The sweetness of the fruit mixed with the delicate fizz of the champagne she sipped, sending a pleasant, happy tingling in her tummy. The ladies around her continued their soft chatter, the room alive with the gentle hum of conversation and laughter.
She was about to reach for another strawberry when a shadow loomed over her. Looking up, she saw the king's butler, his head slightly bowed in respect. He leaned in just enough for her to hear his voice without disturbing the others.
"Madam, his Majesty requests your presence in the drawing room."
Ruby blinked, straightening slightly. She placed her glass down, excusing herself from the table as the ladies bid her a curious farewell. A
