I leaned close to Etan, whispering. “I can’t help but notice that so far, everything is of a benefit to me.”

“It’s all I can do, Hollis. Please don’t stop me.”

I swallowed. This time it was Ayanna who cleared her throat.

I tried to hide it, tried to not look as if my world revolved around his smile. I felt positive every inch of my face gave me away, and try as I may, there was nothing I could do about it. I peeked over my shoulder at Etan’s intended. I had the distinct feeling both she and Hagan would be thrilled when this trip was over.

“Very well. Granted,” I said quietly.

“Oh, amazing. You’ve learned to take instruction. I can’t wait to write Mother about this.”

“Writing? So you’ve finally mastered the alphabet, then? She must be so proud.”

Talks over trade and roads and art went on for hours, and, for the life of me, I didn’t understand why the people before us made things so difficult. While Etan and I didn’t see perfectly eye to eye on everything, and while those who kept the laws had to interject from time to time, everything went smoothly.

Going into these talks assuming my neighboring king wasn’t trying to ruin me and knowing this queen wasn’t trying to ruin him changed everything.

Worlds could be changed when we chose not to walk into rooms operating as if everyone was our enemy.

Etan finally rubbed at his forehead. “I think I have to stop for now. We can leave all the papers out and pick up here tomorrow if you like.”

I nodded. “And I think they’ve planned a ball tonight, so I need rest before that.”

“Well, you don’t have to dance, Your Majesty,” Hagan offered. “I’m sure the other ladies of court will be happy to entertain our guests in your stead.”

Ayanna stood. “Some of the ladies from Isolte choreographed a piece for you. A gift. Nothing impressive, I’m sure, but—”

“No, no!” I said, smiling. “How thoughtful. I can’t wait to see.” I turned to Etan.

“Completely her idea,” he bragged. I liked that she was considerate. He needed someone who put him first, others first in general.

“Gentlemen, will you excuse us? I think I’d like to show Lady Ayanna the gardens.”

She smiled as her eyes went wide, and she let out a slow breath as if bracing herself for being alone in my company.

“Come,” I said, giving her my arm. “You’re going to love the flowers.”

We made our way outside, and, as we walked, I pointed out the fine features of our architecture and noted the various wings of the castle. My home.

For so long, I’d felt like I wasn’t sure where that was. But this was my home now. Right? It had to be. It was where I slept, where I ate, where I ruled. But I supposed that, as long as Etan Northcott wasn’t under the same roof, no place would ever feel like home to me.