The Emperor's Substitute Bride
“A joyous new year to you, Empress. The emperor instructed us to let you sleep in today while he attended a council meeting. It is almost noon and there is to be a hunt before the commencement of the ball tonight.”
The ball! How could she have forgotten? Naomi almost smacked herself. She threw the blankets off and climbed out of the bed. However, Naomi’s legs were still wobbly so she found herself crashing into Delia who despite her slight frame, surprisingly caught her well.
“Are you alright, Empress?” Amani asked as she helped Delia steady Naomi who blushed and waved them off.
“I am just tired. Do not worry.”
Amani took one long look at Naomi’s face, disheveled hair, and bite marks that de