Chapter 38
Joe's POV
The palace ballroom buzzed with laughter, clinking glasses, and the obnoxious sound of praise. Dignitaries in shimmering robes gathered around me like moths to a flame, each one eager to offer their congratulations to the new king.
"Your father would be proud," one of the elders said, placing a firm hand on my shoulder. His rings dug into my skin.
"You're a blessing to the Dark Shades. It's so sad your father had to pass away so soon. But thank the moon goddess that he had a brilliant son to take over from him. We are so lucky to have you. King Joe" added another, his voice syrupy and fake.
I gave them my best fake smile. "Thank you," I said politely, even though I barely heard myself. Their words floated around me like smoke. It was meaningless, empty.
Because they weren't really talking to me.
They were talking to the image. The title. The crown.
Not the man underneath it. I double the even liked me.
