I really had hoped to weed out someone this way, but I knew Henri’s lack of information came from living in the country for only a year or a misunderstanding of the questions in translation.
“Who else do we have? Burke and Ivan . . . not too terrible.” They had each done pretty badly but still had three correct answers over Henri. At least it confirmed my lack of excitement over Ivan.
“Thank you all for indulging me this morning, and I will keep this information in mind as I continue to narrow down suitors in the next few weeks. Congratulations on being so intelligent!” I applauded them, and they patted one another on the back as the cameras powered down.
“Before you go, gentlemen, I have one last question; and it comes from some very recent history, so you all had best get it right.”
They nervously murmured among themselves, ready for the challenge.
“If you know the answer, feel free to just shout it out. Ready? When is it acceptable to put your hands on me without my permission?”
I stared at them all, stone-faced, daring a single one of them to laugh. They exchanged glances with one another, but it was only Hale who was brave enough to answer.
“Never,” he called out.
“That is correct. You’d all do well to remember that. Jack Ranger was let off easy, with nothing more than a punch to his face from my brother and the shame of his ejection. If another one of you attempts to touch me without my consent, you will be caned or worse. Are we clear?”
The room was still.
“I’ll take that as a yes.”
I walked away, hoping my words would linger after me. The game was over, and they couldn’t be left doubting that.
After lunch Dad was a little late getting into the office, which was rare. So I was alone when Lady Brice came knocking on the door.
“Your Highness,” she greeted. “Is your father not here yet?”
“No. Not sure what’s holding him up.”
“Hmm.” She tidied the stack of papers in her arms, thinking. “I really needed to speak with him.”
Lady Brice looked so young sometimes. She was much older than me, of course, but not quite Dad’s age. I never really knew what to make of her. Not that I disliked her or anything, but I always wondered why she was the only woman Dad worked with.
“Anything I could help you with?” I offered.
She looked down, thinking it over. “I’m not sure how widely he’d want to share this information, so I don’t think so. Sorry.”
I smiled, knowing she meant it. “No problem. Lady Brice, can I ask you a question? You’re very smart and kind. Why haven’t you ever married?”
She giggled a little. “I am married. To this job! It means a lot to me, and I’d rather do it well than seek out a spouse.”
I rolled my eyes. “Amen to that.”
“I know you understand. And the only people I ever get to see are the other advisers, and I don’t think I’d want to be in a relationship with any of them. So I’ll just keep working.”
I nodded. “I respect that. I think people assume women aren’t happy without a husband and children, but you seem quite satisfied.”
She shrugged. “I think about it. I might adopt one day. I do think motherhood is an honor. And not everyone does it well.”
The hint of bitterness in her tone made me think she was referring to her own mother, but I didn’t want to ask about specifics.
“I know. I’m fortunate to have such a wonderful one.”
She sighed, melting a little. “Your mom is a natural. In a way, she was like a second mother to me when I was younger, and I learned a lot from her.”
I squinted. “I didn’t realize you’d been around the palace that long.” I tried to remember if there was a time when I hadn’t seen her in the hallways, though I’d never paid much attention to the advisers until I hit thirteen and started working with Dad in earnest. Perhaps I simply didn’t notice.
“Yes, miss. I’ve been here almost as long as you,” she replied with a laugh. “Your parents are far too generous.”
Eighteen years was a long time to hold a position in the palace, especially as an adviser. Dad switched most people in and out every five to eight years based on recommendations and the mood of the country. What kept Lady Brice in her place for so long?
I studied her as she swept her hair over her shoulder and smiled. Had Dad let her stay because she was attractive? No. I felt guilty for even thinking Dad could be capable of being that shallow or selfish.
“Well, I’m sorry I can’t help you, but I’ll tell Dad you came by.”
“Thanks, Your Highness. It’s not terribly urgent, so there’s no rush. You have a good day.”
“You, too.”
She curtsied and left, and I watched the door long after she was gone, curious about this woman I’d apparently known all my life without realizing it. I shrugged it away, turning back to my papers. Between the Selection and work, there was no room in my head for Lady Brice.
CHAPTER 21