The White Wolf Chapter 96: The King is Asking for You

Fluttering her eyes open, Alexia reached to touch her mate but only found cold linens. He was gone and had been gone for some time.

This had become her normal morning waking up alone. She let out a sigh. His scent lingered but she wished to touch him and feel the warmth of his body.

Laying in their bed, she gathered her thoughts. The sun was beginning to break, signaling it was time for her to start her day.

After a shower, she quickly changed into a dress and smoothed her hair till it was tamed. With light makeup and a pair of comfortable heels, she made her way to the door stopping by the bedside table to grab the pendant necklace she had worn the day before.

As always Harley stood on the other side with bright eyes.

With a bow, Harley greeted her as she clutched her notebook to her chest. “Good Morning Your Majesty.”

“Good morning Harely, what is on our schedule for the day.” Alexia greeted her as she latched the clasp of her necklace around her neck before fixing her hair into place.

They began walking towards the dining room for Alexia to take her breakfast.

“I am happy to announce that the renovations to your study are complete and awaiting your inspection.” Harley beamed as she told her the news.

Alexia smiled. “Wonderful, we will go inspect them after breakfast.”

They arrived at the dining room where the footman threw open the doors at their approach. As the queen sat down, a servant brought a silver tray with a dome-covered lid. Placing it in front of the queen, he opened it to reveal her hot breakfast.

Harley, who refused to eat with the queen stood to the side giving her morning report. "The orphanage sent some pictures and a report on the children's welfare, yesterday afternoon. "Harley said placing a stack of photos and pictures next to the queen.

"Oh look, how cute they all are," Alexia said placing her silverware down and picking up the photo stack. "There's little Ellie there, it looks like she's playing with a doll. Such a big smile, that makes me happy."

Her heart was warmed by the sight of the children she had spent time with laughing and playing. Their smiles were the best medicine.

The report gave a detailed account of the children's activities, diet, and how they were faring mentally. Some were coping with the loss of their parents better than others but none were unaffected.

"Let's send them a thank you letter and put these somewhere special," Alexia said handing Harley back the pictures.

"Of course Your Majesty." Harley nodded as the queen went back to eating.

It took all of her willpower not to rush through her meal. She reminded herself to be graceful and take slow bites. By the time they left the room, Alexia was almost bouncing on her feet in excitement like a child full of energy.

With pep in her step, she navigated the palace halls effortlessly.

Stationed outside the door to her study was the steward of the palace who oversaw all renovations and upkeep in the royal residence. At the queen's approach, he gave a perfectly poised bow and greeted her. "Your majesty."

A beautiful smile graced her lips. "Good morning, Mr. Higgens."

It had been a struggle for Alexia to learn all the names of the palace staff, but she was trying her best. Even if she could not remember a name, Harley was always nearby with the answer so no one knew any different.

It had become routine for them. Harley would either whisper the name or text it to her. How Harley had managed to learn everyone’s name down to the last footman amazed her. Probably flashcards, if she had to guess.

"It is a Good morning indeed, The renovations to your personal study have been completed." He stood up straight in a way that seemed uncomfortable as if to keep his suit from wrinkling. Not a single grey hair was out of place and his shoes shined so brightly, Alexia could almost see her reflection in them.

"Yes, I came here first thing after breakfast to see it for myself," Alexia said as she held herself back from opening the door herself and pushing past.

"Then without further fanfare, allow me to present it to you." His gloved hands pushed open the twin wooden doors to the study.

As Alexia walked into the room Higgens spoke "I will give you some time by yourself and will wait outside in case you require anything to be done." Too distracted by taking in the sight, Alexia could only nod a dismissal to the steward.

The renovations were finally finished in Alexia’s study, a task she was glad to be over. She breathed in a deep breath of contentment as she looked about the room.

The craftsman had cleared their tools and the servants had placed the furniture she had ordered in the room. It was set up perfectly waiting for her when she awoke that morning.

Harley stood just a few steps away as the queen surveyed the room.

The floors were dark wood with intricate rugs laid on top. The walls were accented with crown molding and light fixtures that gave off gentle hews.

Her desk was not nearly as grand as her mate’s but was still a work of art. The chair that accompanied it swiveled as she turned it with her hand and two chairs sat in front of the desk for guests.

Laying on top of the desk was a stack of her personal stationery. The royal crest adorning the top and below it was inscribed with Her Majesty Queen Alexia. The font was an elegant script. She picked the thick parchment up between her fingers and felt it before returning it to its place. She continued her survey of the room.

The fireplace at the end of the room had been carved from marble as Alexia walked over to it the gentle crackle of its flames could be heard. In front of it lay a sofa that the queen could see herself lounging on a cold day.

A small sitting area was also in the study for more informal meetings such as tea.

A portrait of Caspian in his royal attire hung on the walls for her to gaze at and admire. She smiled as she gazed her mate posed so stoically. The windows behind her desk have a wonderful view of the gardens.

The room smelled new and clean. It was everything she had envisioned and more.

Harley was hesitant as she spoke to the queen. “Is it to your liking? Anything can be changed that you disapprove of.”

“No, it’s perfect,” Alexia said as she shook her head.

“Then I will inform Mr. Higgens that everything is up to standard.” Harley sang happily and danced out of the room eager to fulfil her task.

She went back to admiring the room. It was hers. Even though she enjoyed being in Caspian’s study, it was nice to have her own space.

Looking at Caspian’s portrait, she smiled and then noticed the empty space that had been left open. There would sit her royal portrait, right next to her mate’s. It felt surreal that she was royal now.

Lost in her thoughts, she did not hear Harley return who then busied themselves cleaning imaginary dirt. The pens on the queen’s desk were organized and reorganized almost five times as the secretary looked for something to keep her busy.

The pens were specially ordered for the queen like her stationary, they were inscribed with her name.

There was a knock at the door. Alexia turned her head to watch Harley answer it. The muffled voices could not be heard but Alexia waited.

Closing the door, Harley turned and approached the queen. “The king is asking for you.”