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We stepped further into the main room. Every single face stared right at us, some with curiosity, others with suspicion. A hushed murmur spread as we passed by each table; they knew our faces and they were determined to find out what we were doing here—right in their place of solace.
I could feel their eyes pressing onto my back, like a heavy weight that prevented me from moving. I quickly glanced away, trying to ignore the judgmental stares of people who were just trying to survive.
Eva urged me forward and I stepped into the realm of the unknown. My three men were at my heels, poised for attack. Eva knocked on the door that led to the offices, and a female voice called out, “Come in.”
Eva pushed the door open. In the room, multiple women were situated at their computers, and an older woman was seated in the corner.
“Eva!” a warm voice sang in delight. “I had been wondering where you were!”
“Hey, Yasmin,” Eva spoke hesitantly, glancing at me as she stepped aside.
Yasmin’s pupils dilated as they fell upon me, and her face contorted into tense concentration. Her hand crept under her desk, as if feeling for a hidden weapon.
“Are you…in trouble?” she asked calmly, her voice thick.
“Nope. They just want to hear about your plans for Redview and see if they can offer any assistance,” Eva chimed in, her voice clear and sure.
Yasmin slowly rose from her chair, eyes unyielding as she studied each of us. She was a stunning woman—so elegant, with gentle features, intense eyes, and a warm smile. Her long dark hair was drawn back into a neat ponytail. She wore a simple plaid shirt and sweatpants—an outfit that the other workers in the kitchen had donned.
My heart raced as anxiety surged through my veins. Oh, God. I needed to stay calm.
“Everyone out, please. I’d like to speak with Eva’s friends,” she commanded in a brittle tone, far removed from the warmth of her earlier greeting with Eva.
The three women practically ran for their lives, pushing us aside as they scurried away. Eva quickly threw herself into the nearest chair, physical and emotional exhaustion taking its toll.
My three burly men remained firmly at my side. “If I had known the queen was coming, I would have at least tried to make this a more hospitable atmosphere. However, I can never bring myself to bow before someone who hasn’t earned it,” Yasmin declared with a bitter edge. Her voice shook as if she fought back betrayal.
I grinned maniacally while removing my hood. “It looks like we already have something in common.”
Yasmin’s lips curved into an icy smile, but her gaze was blank. “I’ve heard you and your companions are in some trouble.”
I narrowed my eyes suspiciously. “Yes.”
“You’re on the run, aren’t you?”
“We are,” I replied, my voice quivering.
She then glanced pointedly at August. “Please forgive me, but I have no desire to converse with King Frederick’s son in my presence. That man single-handedly ruined this entire kingdom.” Her voice was shrill with anguish, her body quivering as she spoke. I could see the pain in her eyes and knew there was no turning back for us now.
August took a deep and steadying breath before striding forward. His voice carried into the room, unwavering. “He’s not my father, ma’am. And I’m relieved that I share no blood with that abhorrent man.”
Yasmin let out a rattling sigh. “So the rumors were true then. I thought for sure Lord Nathan was speaking out of his ass.”
I inhaled sharply, my voice cutting through the silence like a hot knife. “He’s certainly lied about several things,” I retorted, standing my ground. “I came here to discuss them with you.”
Yasmin shot me a quizzical glance, her expression darkening. “Why? I’m just a woman who runs a soup kitchen.”
Eva slammed her hand down on the table, her voice rising steadily. “Come off it, Yas! You practically run this town!”
I swallowed hard, my gaze firm. “Lord Nathan has been lying to you all this time—and he needs to be held accountable.”
Yasmin scoffed, folding her arms with a haughty air. “All men in power lie. At least Nathan inspires change.”
My blood boiled at her words. How could she be so naive? “He may bring change, but at what cost? I hear he makes a lot of promises he can’t keep—or refuses to keep. Redview needs help, and he’s just another man trying to capitalize on your anger.”
Yasmin’s frown deepened. “What are you asking me to do?”
“Reform your town,” I replied. “I need your help, but I also need your leadership. You’re the most respected woman in this city, and if you say something, men listen.”
