The king's wedding.

A Daughter's Dread

Bianca

As my mother entered the room, a palpable tension filled the air, sending shivers down my spine. Her presence alone struck fear into those around her, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of dread wash over me.

"Are you ready?" she asked, her voice sharp and commanding.

"I will be ready soon. I just need a touch of makeup," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady despite the fear gnawing at my insides.

As she approached me, her eyes landed on the bruise on my face, and her demeanor turned icy.

"What is this?" she demanded, her voice laced with anger as she grabbed my face.

"It's nothing, Mother," I replied, trying to hide my fear.

"Nothing?" she scoffed, her grip tightening on my face. "Who did this to you?"

"Master," the maid called, falling to her knees. "It was my mistake."

Shit. What the heck was going on in that brain of hers? She knew my mother so well, yet she dared confess her crime to her.

"Your mistake?" My mother growled, her voice send