Madelyn blinked.
"I—your ladyship—I cannot intrude. There was no invitation granted to me."
"You can intrude," the queen interjected gently. "You are the prince's affianced. It is only proper that you begin to accustom yourself to such engagements."
Madelyn's fingers curled faintly at her sides, and beneath her dress, her toes dug into the plush rug.
"Oh, this is a most delicate pattern," the duchess remarked suddenly, her attention shifting to the handkerchief abandoned on the small table. She lifted it lightly between her fingers. "You embroider with admirable skill."
Madelyn swallowed. Managing, she said, "Thank you, My Lady."
"I once did the same," the duchess continued, with a faint smile. "I embroidered a handkerchief and presented it—" She paused, turning toward the queen. "Your Majesty—what became of the one I gifted you four years ago? I do not believe I have seen it since."
The Queen coloured—actually coloured. "Alexander has it, and would not give it back."
