The dress was perfect. And Marigold was flawless. Leave it to her mother, Queen Layna to point out the only flaw. “Your necklace doesn’t match,” Queen Layna hissed. “Dad gave it to me,” Marigold said. The queen stiffened and dropped the subject. “You look amazing, your royal majesty,” Max piped up from behind. “Yes, yes. I know,” Queen Layna waved off what Max said. Marigold knew how Max was Queen Layna’s favorite type of person. Someone skittish that she could make nervous easily. One that was very loyal to her. “Mo-,” Marigold started to say mother but was cut off by trumpet fanfare. “Introducing Prince Cecil of the Ebony Mountains,” Sebastian cried, introducing the newest suitor. Prince Cecil walked in, followed by his entourage. He walked up the steps to where Marigold was standing. “Queen Layna,” Prince Cecil said in a slithery voice. “An honor to meet you. And you! Princess Marigold,” Prince Cecil looked at her and changed his voice to something more silky. “You are the most radiant person who has ever lived.” Inward, I rolled my eyes. I wondered how many girls had heard those words from him. “It is a pleasure to meet you,” I said, dipping into a curtsy. “The pleasure is all mine. I assure you,” Prince Cecil swept into a bow and kissed Marigold’s hand. Marigold was sure she would’ve been enchanted by Prince Cecil if she wasn’t gay. Queen Layna clapped her hands. “Almost time for the ball! Let’s go get ready.”
