Her Days Were Numbered

The king remembered her from the first ball Aldric forced her to attend.Of course, how could he not remember? She became quite famous after Valerie publicly denied their relationship. 

"Urm, your Majesty..." Islinda scratched the back of her neck nervously, her gaze returning to the ground. With a disconcerting expression, King Oberon gazed at one as though he could see right through them. "I am the human who looked after Va—-Prince Valerie in the human realm." 

Islinda cursed herself for almost slipping. There was utmost decorum when the king and royal family were present. Furthermore, addressing the crown prince of Astaria would raise even more suspicions. 

Finally, the King's eyes widened in surprise as recognition flashed through them. 

"Brillant! The drama in the palace has kept me occupied, but I have been meaning to reward the human who saved my son," he exclaimed. His look at Valerie and Aldric said it all.