Chapter twelve.

IVY'S POV.

"I don't accept you." That was the first thing she said to me.

"Ah—okay." I nod.

Emilliano spoke up, looking straight at his mother. "What is the meaning of this? Didn't you say you wouldn't get involved if I were to find my mate?"

"I did say that. But now I take it back." The queen says it lightly.

Except for the finely carved brows and black hair, she looks nothing like Emilliano.

While just sitting there, she exudes an aura that can't be overlooked.

So this is how a queen looks?

"I won't accept this." Emilliano hisses, gritting his teeth.

"Your opinion was never needed." Queen Veronica states with a smile that doesn't reach her eye. "Be sure of one thing, Prince. I will never accept this—human to be this next queen."

She is harsh.

The tension spread across the dining room, and the two stared at each other, their gazes meeting mid-air, with no one willing to back down.

Still, the light aroma of the food arranged on the table flows into my nose, and I am unable to resist t