EMMA
I stared at my reflection in the mirror and loved how I had dressed. A lot of dresses were provided for me and I love them all.
The fabric clung to me like vengeance. Black silk threaded with dark rubies, my neckline carved to reveal strength, not seduction.
My hair was coiled into a crown of braids, woven with the same precision I now used to craft my revenge.
Tonia the snake stood behind me, she was still the same one dressing me up. Her fingers were too quick and I had asked for a cloak fastened at the waist, but as I looked down, I noticed the threads didn't match the royal embroidery.
A tiny, almost invisible trick, a tug here, a snag there. She was trying to make me trip and shame me in front of the entire court.
My lips curved upward… slow. She thought I wouldn't notice.
I spun toward her so fast her hands flew to her sides.
"Do you take me for a fool?" My voice was silk-wrapped around steel. "Undo it. Now."
