Ever After (Unfinished Fairy Tales #3)(61)
If he didn’t discover Katriona’s secret, he would have a much tougher time freeing me, especially when I’m guilty of forgery and the public despises me. But I didn’t get to say that, for at that moment, Thomas enters, bearing a tray of aromatic food. My mouth starts to salivate and I can barely restrain from wrestling the tray from him.
“Thank you, Thomas.” Edward gestures to the table. “No, there’s no need to ladle the soup; I will tend to my wife. I shall let you know when we are finished.”
There’s a pot of steaming chicken broth and a loaf of fresh rye bread, still warm from the oven. I wolf down two bowls and three slices; table manners can wait for another day. Edward also helps himself, but mostly he watches me eat, a pensive look in his eyes.
“Did they mistreat you in prison?” He narrows his eyes, as if he’s planning to punish anyone who’s responsible for my thin frame.
Quickly I assure him that since Elle got me a private cell, it could have been worse. Still I shiver, remembering those long hours in prison, unable to do anything or talk to anyone. If I were sent back, it’s possible I could go mad. “But oh, I’m so thankful you came in time. I kept telling myself that I had to be strong for your sake, but this time I didn’t have Mr. Davenport to defend me, and I was guilty of assuming Katriona’s identity.”
“How come that you told others you were Katriona Bradshaw? I thought we had agreed that you are to pass off as Wellesley’s granddaughter.”
“Oh.” I look down on my hands. “I…er…I was an idiot.” I tell him about my trying to save Princess College by disguising as the princess and signing over the ownership to Elle, and how Bianca and Katriona arrived when I was at Spencer’s Sky-High Realty. Edward’s expression darkens and his grip on my waist grows painfully tight.
“If I were in the palace, promise me you’ll always come to me first. You should know you could ask me for help any time. I want you to need me as much as I need you."
The passion in his voice touches me, straight to the core. “Of course I do.” I look into his eyes, hoping my sincerity will convince him. “What else would I risk my life to come back to Athelia?”
"Good." He cuddles me close. "Your safety is my priority, Kat. Always remember that.”
The clock chimes. I yawn, as drowsiness settles heavily on my mind and body. I rarely had a moment of quality sleep in jail.
“I suppose it’s time you retire to bed,” Edward says, withdrawing his arm. “If you need anything, there’s a bell pull next to your bed. Do not hesitate to rouse me or the servants.” His tone becomes stern. “I might be able to forgive your running off to Spencer’s if you promise to gain all the weight you’ve lost.”
I nod. “I can’t wait until I can return to the palace with you.” Now that Edward has discovered Katriona Bradshaw’s Moryn husband, he should have no problem getting a divorce. Katriona Bradshaw would definitely be loathe to give up the throne, but if people knew she was in fact secretly married before she married Edward…let’s say the tabloids will have a field day. Then, another thought strikes me. “Did you say I could rouse you, not just the servants? Aren’t you returning to the palace?”
He shakes his head. “I’m staying here with you.”
“Are you serious? But your numerous duties…”
“I am not neglecting my duties,” he says calmly. “I told Bertram to bring me the books and documents in my office, and I asked Amelie to pack a supply of clothes for both of us. I am merely switching my workplace to here. If the prime minister, or any officer, wishes to see me, they can visit me downstairs.”
I blink. “Oh Edward, I really appreciate it, I do. But how about your parents? I know your father can’t be pleased that you’re moving out. Everyone will know you’ve left the legitimate princess and set up house with…with a mistress.”
“My reputation can go hang,” he continues in that deadly calm tone. “Do not feel guilty, love. It is my decision—in fact, I regret that I did not move out sooner.” He bends and kisses my forehead. “Until the divorce is finalized, and you and I are re-married, I will not return to the palace without you. My parents may fret, but your safety matters more to me. Besides, I believe that Mother will not object. She knows I haven’t been able to sleep well since Krev took you away.”
Before I melt into a puddle, my heart brimming with affection for him, someone knocks on the door. The brisk sound reminds me of a person I know well. But it can’t be—
“Amelie,” I say.
Edward opens the door. Sure enough, my maid is standing there, a large basket under her arm. Bertram towers behind her, a huge sack slung over his back like he’s a young version of Santa Claus.
Amelie gazes at me—emotion flickers across her face, and for a moment she seems vulnerable, like if I say something to her, she’ll break into tears. But then she smiles, a genuine heartfelt smile that lights up her pretty face.
“Princess Kat,” she says. “I’ve brought a change of clothes for you.” At Edward’s questioning glance, she adds, “I did not have all her clothes altered for the other lady. I kept a supply stashed away, in case Princess Kat was to return. And now she has.”
Edward smiles. “Thank you, Amelie.”