Chapter 15

A knock at Benedict’s chamber door startled him from his reverie where he stood looking at the remains of Atomas funeral pyre.

“Come in!” he called.

The chamber doors opened and guards entered leading the former Queen Hester.

“Your highness. The lady Hester as ordered.”

“Thank you,” Benedict replied not removing his gaze from the funeral pyre. When he heard the doors close behind the guards, Benedict turned to face Hester. He opened his mouth to speak but couldn’t. He had never seen Hester until now.

She curtsied and bowed her head in respect. “Your Highness.”

Benedict heard no sarcasm or malice in her voice. She showed respect to the man who had killed her husband and taken the kingdom from her family less than a day ago. She was clearly well schooled in politics and matters of the court.

He nodded to Hester and crossed to her coming to a halt before her. He looked down at Hester. He had never seen a woman more beautiful in all his life.

He held out his hand and she gave him hers. H