“I offer my gift to him,” Catrin said, gazing upon that perfect little face, “This child will always be honest, always be true, and be the most noble of all around him. He will be your light.” She looked up at them then, and bowed her head. “He will always be a source of pride for you.”
“I don’t doubt that madam. We thank you for those kind words.”
She looked down at the cradle again. This could have been her life…but it was not to be. All the longing and love that she had flowed into this little boy. “I will keep you safe always, little Prince. I shall never let anything happen to you.” Her words hadn’t been heard by the king or queen. She looked up at them again.
“What is his name?”
Markellus looked at Sophy, his unease forgotten for a moment. “Ah, madam, you stumble upon one of the challenges a new parent faces. We are still in discussion of what to call him.” They smiled at one another.
“If I might offer a suggestion, Your Majesties?” She waved a hand, and felt them focus on her as the rest of the throne room faded slightly. “Call him Casimir. Let your people know.” She waved her hand once more, and with one last look at the cradle, moved away.
Silence followed as she hurried to the door. It would not do to be discovered here. At the doorway, she turned and looked at the two happy parents, and waved her hand once more. The throne room burst into life again behind her. She heard Markellus begin speaking in a strong voice.
“My lords and ladies, I am pleased to announce the Queen and I have come to a decision on the name of our son! His name is Casimir!”
Catrin smiled as she left the castle. Casimir, she thought. You have a great destiny in front of you. I will be with you, always.
She walked into the sunshine to begin her life—the life she was meant to have. Now it was even better. With someone to love, there was nothing beyond her reach.
If anyone ever harmed that boy, she would make them wish they’d suffered a thousand deaths. That she promised.
Acknowledgements
There are always so many people to thank once the book hits the point where you say, ‘The End’!
First, to my family. You are always my biggest cheering section, no matter what. I’m lucky to have all the family I do.
To my critique groups, I can’t thank you enough. Your never-ending patience with me bringing in scenes willy-nilly is what keeps me moving forward.
To my editor, Rachel of Millar Editing. What would I do without you? In soothe, I know not. All mistakes are mine.
To my wonderful group of pen pals, and my friends united in pastries, your support is the best!
To my writing partnerin-crime, or torturing-our-darlings, as it were, Monica, thank you for always taking my calls.
Finally, thank you to my husband and my wonderful children who support me in this always. Love you guys.
Thank You For Reading!
Reviews are like manna from heaven, so if you enjoyed this, please leave a review!
You can find the other books of the Sisters Of The Curse Series here:
Book One: Thea’s Tale
Book Two: Casimir’s Journey
Novella: One Night At The Ball
About the Author
Lisa Manifold lives in the amazing state of Colorado with her husband, two Darling Boys, two dogs, and a perpetually offended cat. She is an avid reader, skier, and costumer. You can find her online at:
Website: Writing From The Top Of The Street
Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorlisamanifold
Twitter: @LMManifold
Amazon Author Page: amazon.com/author/lisamanifold
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One Night At The Ball: A Sisters of the Curse Novella Page 11
