Chapter 18: I’m Your Mate

Cercei’s POV “Ouch,” I winced, attempting to change the bandage on my wounds single-handedly. Mamà had informed me that she would be spending the night inside the grand mansion, burdened with more work due to what had occurred. I had been the one meant to be punished, but she pleaded with Monsieur on my behalf.  I had tried to dissuade her, asserting that I was the one deserving of punishment. Nevertheless, my mother would do anything within her power to shield me from harm.  Engrossed in the task of changing my bandage, I suddenly detected a familiar fragrance wafting through the air. Closing my eyes, I surrendered myself to the scent.  The scent from the cave!  This must be it. My senses sharpened as the aroma grew stronger. I could hear the rustling of the wind and the approaching footsteps. Alarmed, I stood up abruptly.  I leapt to my feet as the door swung open forcefully, the sound of the aged, creaking door filling my ears. My entire body froze upon catching sight of the man who