Mated To The Cruel Prince
Chapter 382: Fear Was Contagious

Chapter 382: Fear Was Contagious

"Where in the world have you been?!" Sura was upon her as soon as she returned to the kitchen.

"I’m sorry, I was a bit occupied," Islinda gave her the excuse that wasn’t exactly a lie, her breath heavy from running back to this place.

She had not meant to take a lot of time but after that weird yet somewhat helpful conversation with the healer, she had visited Aurelia. The Fae should be on her feet by now but Zaya had induced her into some sort of coma to ensure that the iron poison was completely cleansed from her system and to ensure she was well rested. Knowing Aurelia she would be back to duty as soon as her eyes opened, Islinda could not exactly blame Zaya’s method.

"I wonder why the prince wouldn’t just get rid of you rather than burden us with your pathetic presence if you can’t even work this much!" Sura insulted Islinda and she had to clutch her skirt at her sides to keep herself from punching this rude Fae in the face.

If the magic and extraordinary strength were kept out of the fight, Islinda had no doubt she would beat her pathetic ass. But the creatures had a really fragile ego and she had no doubt Sura would strike her with her magic once she lost out of spite. No, she would not give her the satisfaction. Sura was probably seeking an excuse to touch her, she would not give her one.

"I’m sorry, it will not happen again." Islinda apologized, her nails biting into her palm.

At that moment, Zaya’s advice suddenly seemed tempting. Why doesn’t she swallow her pride and beg Aldric to restore her to her former position? On her first day of work?

No, Islinda was horrified at the idea. She was not giving up that easily. She would fight. Except her fight wouldn’t be physical this time. Zaya was right, she had no idea what life outside the protection of Aldric’s was like. She already heard tales of how half-breeds were treated, not to talk of a powerless human like her. She wouldn’t be able to survive in this cruel Fae realm.

Perhaps she should be grateful that Aldric had given her a roof over her head, and warm food in her belly and not dumped her in the dungeon like a lot of evil Fae princes do in the storybooks and tales told about them. He was the lesser evil and she would Aldric believe he was winning. Islinda was determined to find a way to return Eli to that body. And make it permanent — if she doesn’t die.

"Sura!" Marimar chastised her, "That’s no way to talk to her."

Sura sneered, "Why? She’s no longer a lady and a mere servant."

"Especially now, yes. I would not let you bully a poor human. I’m sure you were given a better reception when you started." Marimar said firmly, her eyes narrowed in warning.

Sura grumbled something under her throat and strode away to continue her duty.

Islinda sighed, "You don’t need to stand up for me."

"A mere thank you would surface and don’t take it the wrong way. There’s no preferential treatment in your case and I would do that for any staff being maltreated especially now I’m in charge." She quickly added, "The prince is ready for his breakfast. Grab a dish and start moving. Chop! Chop!"

Islinda was prompted into action and she quickly grabbed one of the trays containing one of the dishes that had been covered with a stainless lid. She fell in line with the other Fae who began their organized match to the dining hall.

Her heart pounded as they walked through the corridor, Islinda was conscious of the fact she was about to meet the prince who reduced her to this. It was quite hilarious that just days ago, she walked through this same hall to be served her meal and now she was about to serve another. The hysteria bubbled up her throat but she kept it down. Best not to let the Fae think she has lost her mind as well.

When the large double door was opened, Islinda was immensely relieved to notice the prince had not arrived at the dining. It made her frown as to why she was suddenly so self-conscious. Was it because of the dull brown dress she was wearing instead of the luxurious gowns still occupying her wardrobe? Was she worried that Prince Aldric would look down on her appearance? By the gods, she was stupid.

She was nothing but a village pumpkin when Aldric brought her to the Fae realm. So why feel ashamed of her little beginning? When did she begin to get this vain?

They set the dishes on the table and Islinda went red in the face when she saw the fae lining across the wall with their head lowered. Fuck, she had forgotten they had to serve the prince until he was done with the meal.

By the gods, she had always hated this aspect of the meal and now that she was in the same situation, Islinda felt so mortified.

"What are you waiting for? The prince would be here soon. Get moving."

A Fae jolted her back to reality and Islinda realized that she had been stuck at that spot while every other Fae had taken position.

Islinda was about to join them only for the door to open at that moment and her soul left her body. She was not usually this scared of Aldric but fear was a contagious emotion when the servants acted this cautious.

At that moment, Islinda had no idea what to do, looking between the Fae at the end of the wall and the prince about to step into the hall. In a split second, she made a decision, dashing beneath the table and concealing herself under the white linen. The wide-eyed gazes of the other Fae were the last thing she saw as she hid.

And then, she held her breath.

May the gods save her.