CHAPTER NINE
That evening, Niko stood in the dining room with Julianna, waiting for his parents and Isabel to arrive. Servants scurried about like mice. Instead of carrying crumbs and cheese, they held pitchers of water and platters.
Anticipation filled the air. Niko felt himself caught up in the excitement. Everyone wanted a glimpse of Princess Isabel. Unfortunately, she was far from the princess they were expecting. She might be here by birthright, but she believed a wrench belonged in her hand, not a scepter. He wanted her to see otherwise.
He checked his watch. “Isabel is late.”
“Isabel is not late.” Julianna swirled her champagne flute.
She wore a lovely green cocktail dress and silver heels. He recognized the diamond earrings and necklace from the Aliestle crown jewel collection
