Page 155 of Unmasked

Penelope

Who was I as Queen?

How did I want to be perceived?

I thought I knew. I was so sure when I started the trials. But now, as I stared at the phone ready to call the Main Master from Red Island, I questioned myself. It wasn’t about the power one gained from authority… it was how they used that power to lead that determined their worth as a ruler.

How did I want Luke to see me?

How did I want the entire community of The Council and Main Masters to view me?

A queen wasn’t just a crown. She was a reflection of her actions and choices. And being one of the only women, I couldn’t be soft. But I couldn’t be unjust either.

“You’ve been staring at that footage on pause now for half an hour. What are you thinking about?”

My lips pursed. “My actions.”

“Don’t overthink it, love. You know what you’re doing.”

“I thought I did. I do… I just—” I reached across the desk to take Vaughn’s hand, still not happy that I was in his chair. I needed something new. Something my own. “The first couple of decisions I make will set the tone.” I swallowed hard. “People are watching. What they see is everything. I can’t mess this up.”

“You won’t. You know what to do.”

I nodded, reaching for the phone as I took in Luke’s number on the screen. I dialed, listening to it ring. A deep tone came through. It was calm. Smooth.

“Hello?”

“Luke Draper.”

He paused. “I recognize the accent. You must be The Queen of The Order. I was wondering when we would meet.”

“I wasn’t aware news traveled so fast.”

A low chuckle left him.

“I’m secluded to a small island. News is life. Besides, there aren’t many women in our world with standing. It’s refreshing. How may I help you, Penelope?”

I glanced over to Vaughn, feeling comfort settle in.

“One of your captains was detained in London. He was drunk, openly speaking about routes, women, and The Order.” I paused. “I can’t have that.”

Silence.

“I agree. Name?”

“Desmond Harvel.”

There was another pause. This time it dragged out longer.

“The man is a fool. I’ve had problems with him before.”

“He’s a risk. I was hoping you wouldn’t be opposed to me teaching him a lesson.”

Luke got quiet. When he spoke again, I could detect interest in his tone.

“I’m curious. What do you have in mind?”

I tapped my finger on the desk, glancing back at hazel eyes as I caught Vaughn’s own interest.