Reunion (6)

Regina excused herself and left, but not without shooting Marlena a warning look.

"Come sit beside me, Marlena," the mother queen invited her. "Is there anything you want to tell me?"

Marlena instantly thought about her mother's remark but shook her head. The mother queen may be kind but they had only known each other for a few days. It wasn't long enough to fully understand a person's intentions.

"Your governess Frances is in the library, waiting for you."

Marlena was surprised. She had thought the governess wasn't coming anymore.

____

Frances was already sitting in a reading nook in the library. Seeing Marlena, she stood up and bowed her head in greeting. "Greetings, your highness."

She an elderly woman who looked to be about the same age as the mother queen, and about just as intimidating.

It took Marlena a few moments to remember she was supposed to respond to the greeting.