Total pages in book: 46
Estimated words: 42883 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 214(@200wpm)___ 172(@250wpm)___ 143(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 42883 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 214(@200wpm)___ 172(@250wpm)___ 143(@300wpm)
“Um… it’s just a grocery list. I have to run to the market after my shift,” I lie.
“Why is your grocery list written on official royal stationary?” she questions, eyes narrowing. Shit, I didn’t think of a reason why when I came up with this lie. I feel like I’m in boiling water, and I don’t know how I’m going to get myself out of this.
“I’m so sorry. I know I shouldn’t have, but it was the closest thing to me at the time, so I just grabbed a piece and quickly jotted down my list,” I say, trying to sound as remorseful as possible. Mary studies me for a bit, as if she’s trying to figure out whether or not I’m telling the truth.
“Well, don’t let it happen again,” she finally grunts. “The royal family’s property is not for our personal use.” I nod and then quickly return to dusting. The middle-aged woman watches me for a bit, making me feel nervous. Maybe she didn’t really buy my story? Or maybe someone told her that they saw me sneaking around the castle last night? Whatever the case may be, she’s got her eyes on me like an eagle watching its prey.
I try to keep calm, but my manager’s stare is intimidating. What could be going through her mind right now? My heart pounds as a knot forms in my stomach, causing me to buckle over a little bit as my breathing becomes shallow. Her eyes bore into me, making me break out into a sweat.
Finally, however, she breaks her stare and leaves the throne room. I let out a sigh of relief because I couldn’t keep my composure for much longer. I wipe the sweat from my brow and lean against the wall. That was so close. If Mary had read that note, I probably would never have seen Eric again. I have to be more careful because my job depends on it.
I finish dusting the throne room and then head into the locker room. I check to make sure it’s completely empty before sliding my hand into my pocket and pulling out the stationary. I look around again, just in case someone is close by watching, and then re-read it before stuffing the note into my purse. It’ll be much safer here. The last thing I need is for it to accidentally slip out of my pocket for someone else to find.
My heart races as I slam my locker door shut. I knew our evening together last night wasn't just a fling because Eric wants to see me again! I smile to myself, going warm all over. But what will I tell my parents? I can't say I'm going to see another movie because my mom will never believe that. But I have to see Eric tonight, so I have to come up with something.
Dammit. I wish we didn't have to sneak around, but there’s no choice. Hmm, maybe I’ll tell my parents them that I'm going out on a date; I just won't say with whom. My mom has been on my case lately about dating because she wants me to meet boys and have an active social life. It’s not bad because Doria just wants me to get married and have children of my own someday. Plus, if I tell my parents I'm going on a date, I won't be completely lying to them.
Suddenly, a locker door slams, startling me. I don’t want to chat with anyone, so I wait for their footsteps to go to the back, and then rush out of the locker room. I head down the hall and into the dining room where Aunt Nellie’s cleaning. Sometimes, after I've already finished cleaning my area, I figure I'll help my aunt with hers. She’s getting older, and appreciates the assistance.
“Kitty, it’s so great to see you,” she greets.
“It’s good to see you too, Aunt Nellie,” I say as I wrap my arms around her stooped shoulders.
“What are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be on the top floor?” she asks. I smile.
“I’ve finished all of my rooms for the day, so I came by to help you,” I say.
“You’re such a sweet girl,” she says as her eyes twinkle. She steps back and takes a look at me. “Something about you looks different today,” she muses. I pretend innocence.
“What do you mean?” I ask.
“You look like you’re glowing, my dear,” she comments. Oh my god, you can’t get anything past Aunt Nellie because she knows me so well. Should I tell her about Eric? I know I can’t tell her that it’s the prince, but I want her to know there’s someone new in my life, someone special. I smile slightly as I stare at the ground.
“You’re right, Aunt Nellie. I’m falling for someone,” I admit.