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 b