#CHAPTER 16: Ambush at the Banquet

MILA I barely slept that night. I tossed and turned in that little bed, hyper-aware of Fiona sleeping soundly a few feet away. I knew she didn’t buy my story about going for a walk, but I knew better than to pick a fight with her. I already had enough enemies as it was with Lady Isabella. And then there was Felix–sweet, strong, gentle Felix, who had almost taken my mask off. My identity would have been revealed, and I would have likely been thrown into the castle dungeons for deception. But a small part of me wanted him to take off my mask. I was tired of hiding. There were more important things to worry about now. The banquet, for one. I was in the royal kitchens before the sun rose. The place was already bustling with royal servants and hired chefs alike preparing for the banquet. Even in the chaos of yesterday, I was struck by how organized the entire royal kitchen system was. Everyone had a place. The people were kind and welcoming. As I set up my station for t