Bab 26: The Queen's Kiss

Rosina was frozen at her spot when the Queen stood in front of her. She could smell the sweet scent of strawberry coming from her.

"Raise your head, child," Cinzia Violante, the Queen, spoke softly with a smirk.

Rosina followed, lifted her head, and looked directly into the Queen's eyes, staring back at her.

The Queen's smirk grew, and she glanced at Rosina's gown and figure. She touched Rosina's cheeks, caressing them before kissing her forehead.

Rosina was shocked at the gesture and watched as the Queen winked at her before returning to the throne. She could hear the loud gasps and murmurs from the crowd, but she didn't know the motive behind the Queen's actions.

Rosina smiled before bowing again and returning to her assigned seat, which was in the first row. She saw how the King glanced at her with a small smile, which she smiled back and bowed her head in return.