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Chapter Twenty-Nine: Change of Heart

The ball was slightly better than some of the others, but she was still anxious for it to be over. It was approaching midnight, and the royals had yet to make their farewell speeches. She’d gotten more accustomed to keeping these late hours as their guest, but was currently resenting the demands on her time when all she wanted to do was surround herself with her guards to have a heartfelt and honest discussion about their future.

She let out a breath of relief when quiet descended around the ballroom as the symphony abruptly stopped playing. The king and queen got to their feet, and trays of champagne circulated. She took one and put on a polite smile, preparing for a political speech. At least she was certain King Arlo and Queen Tempest actually liked her though, unlike the Drakkens, who’d seemed to merely tolerate her presence.

“You all know we’re here to bid farewell to our favorite guest, North Campbell.” At the king’s words, the assemblage bur