Claire Sinclair only caught the gist of it and said politely, "Thank you."
Morinka smiled. "Miss Sinclair, please, sit down. I'd like to have a proper chat with you. Perhaps we can become good friends, just like you and Little Prince Hale."
Claire Sinclair glanced at Adrian Quincy, seeking his approval.
Adrian Quincy said in a low, serious voice, "Sit down."
Only then did Claire Sinclair dare to sit, though she felt a little nervous.
Adrian Quincy had someone bring another place setting, then said, "Pardon me, I need to step out for a moment."
As if on cue, both women watched his departing figure. An unconcealed reluctance to see him go filled Claire Sinclair's eyes, while Morinka sighed, a hint of sadness in her own.
Once Adrian Quincy had disappeared through the door, Morinka began, "Miss Sinclair, do you know why I wanted to see you?"
Claire Sinclair shook her head. "Please explain, Princess Morinka."
