Shakedown

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I quickly collected my wits, sharply looking into her eyes which held disdain and hatred. Her words plunged me into turmoil. What's she saying? Of course, Romoe was my brother, looking every inch like our father.

"What nonsense you speak, My lady mother", I said grimly "The king won't take such jesting ".

I made to turn away from her but her hand which lay on my shoulder prevented me. I felt irritated at her touch. How dare she lie to cover up?

"I am not jesting, Rowland. Romoe is... ",

A sharp painful whisper made mom swallow her words as her eyes traveled through my shoulders to the bed.

I turned to see Leona wild awake with a painful expression on her white pale face.

"My Lord, Your majesty', she murmured weakly. " Forgive me... ",

"Lay back, My lady", I instructed sharply as she made to come down the bed.

"I would take my leave now, Rowland ", Mother's voice echoed angrily before she left.

I stared straight into her face, fixing my eyes on her eyes.