“Do not shut me out!” shouted Philippe. He gestured toward his men to force their way in but at that moment Fabien and eight of the King’s largest, best-armed Swiss guards arrived. Their hands were on their weapons and they were more than ready.

“I would choose your next decision carefully, Your Highness,” said Fabien.

Philippe bared his teeth and turned on his heel.

Having spied Beatrice quietly conversing with Cassel in chapel during morning prayers, and anxious to find something more to offer Fabien and please him, Laurene dressed herself as a chambermaid and made her way into Beatrice’s apartment. She hid in the shadows until she was certain she was alone, and then searched the shelves, armoire, and desk, checking each paper and feeling each drawer in case there might be a false bottom.

And there was.

The base of the lowest desk drawer slid open to reveal more papers, papers that were covered in ornate writing and appeared quite old. One in particular caught her attention. It was the same as the others yet half-finished. She suspected it was quite important, and folded it to put into her skirt.

“Hello,” came a voice from behind. “I’m looking for my mother.”

Laurene stood and spun around to find Sophie standing there.

“I…I found this,” Laurene managed, holding out the paper. “It was on the floor. Where does it go?”

Sophie shrugged. “I don’t know. I don’t live here anymore. I sleep close to my lady. I can take it if you like.”

“I’ll put it away,” said Laurene. Sophie nodded and went to the armoire to draw out a scarf. Laurene pocketed the paper, made a ruse of dusting, and then hurried from the room.

Resting on his pillows, his strength not fully returned, Louis beckoned Claudine over to his bed. He saw the sadness in her eyes from the loss of her father yet also saw the wisdom and courage.

“Your sacrifice will not be forgotten,” he said. “My deepest sympathy for your loss. I know now my replacement for your father.”

Claudine nodded. “What is his name?”

“I only know he stands before me now. You will find many who oppose you, who would rather I chose someone from my circle of physicians. But you must be deaf to their judgments. Will you accept the position? If the answer is yes, there is no going back. Your life will be changed forever.”

Claudine nodded slowly. “I accept.”

“Then it is yours. Medicine is a fine career.”

Claudine curtseyed, stunned at this news.

Louis called to Bontemps, who came to stand beside Claudine. “Send for Madame de la Vallière,” the King ordered.

Louise came quickly and uncertainly, entering the King’s bedchamber with her rosary fumbling in her hands. She approached the King and curtseyed.

“The child’s name is Louis?”

“Our son? Yes, Sire.”

“His governess is in Paris. The same as his brother?”

“Yes.”