Lady In Red

40

[A few days later]

There I stood before the Princess's library. I breathed out before opening the door and seeing her working while Oliver stood by. She looked up and stood up giving me the usual greetings and I smiled.

I had not been out of my chambers much as I cooped up with delicious food and maids at my disposal at the command of my King. I was very much thankful for it for I had terrible bleeding days. So much so I couldn't move sometimes.

However I had wished to see her Highness very much. As soon as I felt better I was on my heels to her study.

"Your Majesty. You should've called on me" she stated with a frown but I shook my head.

"I was just wondering what you were up to".

In reality, I had received the news of Lord Vincent on the castle grounds again. I thought maybe being with her till he left would help her avoid him.

"Going through the season's report Madam. Would you like to take a look."

I walked next to her and went through the pages however I wasn't looking at them. I was staring at her hands as they flipped the paper.

A new bruise next to her wrist. I frown at it and look at her but she was busy looking at the book before us.

I licked my lips and turned to Fred," When was the last time Lord Vincent paid the court a visit?"

I saw her eyes snap up at me. I could see her body instinctively flinch at the name.

Oliver was the one to speak up, " Two days ago Your Majesty."

He knew what was going on as well.

I nodded looking at the report before smiling at Regina.

"Your Highness, I will be in my private gardens today at noon. Take my mind off work-" I continue as I walk away and towards the door before turning around." I would love to have you. My ladies baked some delicious pastries. I would be happy to share them with you over tea. "

She stayed quiet, with a hesitant expression.

"I..."

"You do not have to decide now. But you are welcome whenever you like. Ionly wish you relaxed, take a day off and enjoyed my garden and some new tea. Surely you can be spared from your other duties to spend time with me."

She smiled but seemed dejected.

"Well. See you then." I bid my farewell and left.

There was nothing more I could say to convince her. But the more I insist the more she would be uncomfortable. It was best I left it up to her.

And if that didn't work. I had other plans.

"Maya, have you asked the cook to-" I turned to see Lydia instead.

"Where is she ?"

" Forgive me Madam she was in the library before we left. Perhaps left to see the cook herself."

I didn't know she was that fast.

Well ...

"You can leave Fred. I wish to walk a bit"

He nodded before leaving us. I would never be comfortable knowing Vincent Clark was on the ground. But I had Clara with me.

I needed Fred to do much more important work than just follow me around.

"Might suggest asking Sir Fredrick to guard her Highness for the time being?" Clara asked as we entered my lounge.

I sit on the couch, grab my book and smirk at her.

Quick witted isn't she?

"I have already asked him to do so." She nodded standing back.

"Madam, the cooks are ready for high tea" Maya walked startling me.

I do not remember asking for her presence. But I suppose it was good since everything was prepared. All I had to do was wait, wait to see if Lord Clark approached her Highness before she came to me.

And I didn't expect that to happen so soon. Hearing the glass doors slam open grabbing my attention, my heart stop as she stood there. Her eyes watering, her face holding sorrow.

I ran to her, grabbing her hand and dragging her towards the private table away from everyone else while Clara followed us.

There was no sign of Fred as he ought to have.

"What happened?" I didn't bother circling around the bush as she sat before me.

"N-nothing. Just, one of those days-"

"I know what happens behind those close doors Regina. And If you don't speak up to me I cannot help you."

She froze pulling away her hand which I was holding lightly, "No your Majesty must have gotten the wrong idea-"

I sigh in disappointment."I shall not ask if that makes you uncomfortable. You may stay here as long as you wish. But I will not sit back and see a man hurt women."

"No! You can't say that-"

"Clark Vincent clearly hurts you-"

"He is to be my husband!"

Everything fell silent as she stood up, turning around to hide her face from me. But she couldn't hide her face from Clara.

I heard her sniff and rub her tears away, "I -I am very grateful for the invite and help, however, It would be best if your Majesty stays away from the internal matters of court. Which I believe are not in your hands."

I frowned but there was nothing I could say.

"I see, surely. There must be many things I do not understand." I whispered earning her attention.

"You do not." She said walking out the door and walking past Fredrick.

I watched her leave before turning to him, "Many here follow his orders. He will be bestowed the title of a Viscount soon. The Dowager made a promise to hand her daughter for protection."

"Protection?"

"If she marries anyone but him, many who support her will not have relevant positions once her husband's family takes over. Queen Dowager wants to make sure the power stays in her family's hands."

"Why these politics when she can askshit King-"

"The king disposed of a highly trusted Viscount just weeks ago under suspicions of producing counterfeit currency. He was very close to the Dowager and hence a supporter of her power in court"

I sigh leaning back in my chair.

"I suppose Her Highness is being used as a pawn to gain back authority," Clara stated.

"I did not know Clark Vincent held such a pristine position."

"Their family has been a part of the primary court decisions for decades Madam. He cannot and will be disposed of just by mere speculations. His family is deeply rooted in the royals"

"Your Majesty, Oliver asks for an audience -"

"Granted" I didn't let the guard finish since I knew what was to be expected of him.

He was after all my spy in this,"Madam-" he bowed.

"Where is she right now?"

"Back in her room your majesty. With Lord Vincent and The Dowager Queen"

He gave us some trivial matters before concluding.

"Thankyou Oliver, you may leave"

He nodded, looking at Fred before leaving.

I huff rolling my eyes, "I suppose I can do nothing and just watch her- getting abused! "

How could this be so complicated? Surely I could help in some way.

Suddenly it dawned on me, I sat up and looked at Lydia. "I am to dine with the King and his cousin today yes?"

She nodded slowly.

"I heard his cousin was the first man to propose to her Highness. Am I right?"

"But, your Majesty might just complicate things if the Dowager learns about your invitation, Knowing what happened. Won't that simply state you support that union"

"Right now Fred, Bringing the King's attention to Regina's wounds is the very best I can do."

"What if Queen Dowager learns of your tactic," Clara asked.

How can she, the only people who know about you all? Lydia would never, Fred is the one who gave me such tactics, Clara and Lady Regina were childhood friends as I just found out a few days ago.

My eyes settled on the doors.

"I suppose no one will" I mutter standing up and walking out to see the guards and my Ladies-in-waiting.

I trusted them but perhaps now, I do not.

"Madam, Your presence is asked in the west wing by Queen Dowager."

I look at the messenger and then at Fred. Nodding before walking out the doors he stopped us.

"She has requested only Her Majesty and Sir Fredrick. You are dismissed as of now."

Clara snaps her head at me before looking back at him, "I cannot be dismissed by anyone but the King"

"You cannot defy the Queen Dowager's commands, you shall have your neck under a sword otherwise."

"You dare-" I stopped her.

"It won't be long. I suppose you know who to go to." I whispered before leaving her.

She stayed quiet as we were escorted towards the far west of the castle.