Rose was startled by the knock. It was quite some time before dinner; no one would usually come to her room at this time. She looked at the door suspiciously. She could never be too cautious, especially with the Queen around.
Caius had said he would find her replacement soon, but by his visits, it was clear he had no plans to do that. Rose didn't want to know what would happen when the Queen found out her son had lied to her.
She slowly stood from the table, where she had been busy with the task the Crown Prince left her, and approached the door. She hesitantly unlocked it and carefully opened it.
"Rose," Thomas called.
Rose beamed immediately, opening the door wide. "Lord Thomas," she squealed.
His scowl deepened as he fought not to smile at her. He stepped into the room and shut the door behind him. Rose immediately noticed he was holding a chessboard.
"Is that for me?"
