Chapter 62: Hidden Messages and Hidden Eyes
Lyria's POV
Jacinta's smile widened the moment the painting was fully visible to her.
"It is beautiful," she said, and the warmth in her voice was, for once, entirely unperformed.
Lucian inclined his head.
"You are most gracious, Your Highness."
The Queen regarded the canvas for a moment longer, her expression carrying the particular quality of someone examining something carefully before rendering an opinion.
"It is indeed remarkable," she said at last, her tone measured.
"Though I confess," she continued, tilting her head slightly, "that there is something about the figure which gives one pause."
Lucian's expression did not change.
"The eyes in particular," the Queen said. "They do not quite resemble the princess' eyes. One might almost suggest that the subject of this painting is someone else entirely."
A faint murmur moved through the nearest nobles.
Lucian opened his mouth.
"Well, that is because it is based on som—"
