Vincent left that morning. While Alec was busy with court affairs, Lauren went to the east wing of the castle where Thalia's chamber was. She thought she could spare her poor stepmother a visit who was too embarrassed to face people. She knew that as the former queen, she held no power against the current ruler. It meant she wouldn't have her way in the castle anymore.
The guards guarding Thalia's room quickly pushed the door open. Holding her head up with a look of disdain on her face, Lauren's shoes made clicking sounds against the marble floor. The guard closed the door behind her.
Thalia who was sitting by the window and holding a wine bottle darted her eyes at Lauren. Her hair was exploding on her face and the dark circles below her eyes were in stark contrast with her overly pale face. The whole room reeked of strong wine and the food on the table hadn't been touched, letting Lauren know that Thalia had only been consuming alcohol.
