Alora waved an impatient hand at her daughter before turning to Rix. She still held Amryn’s hand in her own as she beamed at Amryn’s guardian. “You’re of course invited to stay at our home so you can enjoy the celebration with us.”
A muscle in Rix’s jaw rippled. “That is a generous offer, Lady Vincetti.”
The words may have been polite, but that didn’t change his low tone—or disguise the fact that they weren’t an acceptance.
The light in Amryn’s eyes dimmed slightly. It was enough to make Carver stiffen.
Alora’s smile wavered, but resolutely remained in place as she pulled Amryn into another hug. “Welcome—officially—to the family, Amryn.”
Despite Rix and Torin’s less than enthusiastic reactions, it warmed Carver’s heart to see the joy in his mother’s face. And how tightly Amryn returned her embrace.
“What’s this?”
Carver’s pulse quickened at the sound of Rhone’s voice.
The knight stood just outside their circle, curiosity in his eyes.
Amryn immediately darted a look to her uncle, which Carver followed.
Rix had gone utterly pale, his eyes wide and frantic.
Carver’s stomach dropped.Saints.Rix hadn’t known a knight was here. It was written all over his face. And he obviously had no idea Amryn carried the bloodstone, which protected her from detection.
That became frighteningly clear when his hand moved, fingers easing aside the plaid that hid a small blade sheathed at his hip.
Chapter 57
Amryn
TerrorpoundedthroughAmrynas she stared at Rix. Despite the muting effect of the bloodstone, she could feel the pulse of his fear. His panic.
His resolve.
His fingers wrapped around the hilt of his knife.
Amryn locked eyes with her uncle. Pleaded silently with him not to draw that blade. If he did anything right now, it would only lead to both their deaths. That, she knew with certainty.
Distantly, she was aware of Alora explaining the marriage bracelet to Rhone, who was—thankfully—a rapt listener. Amryn was also aware of the tension in Carver as he stood beside her.
The skin around Rix’s eyes tightened. He darted a look at Rhone.
Amryn rushed forward and threw her arms around her uncle. “Thank you for being so happy for me,” she said, loud enough for everyone in their circle to hear. Then—in his ear—she whispered, “I’m safe. I promise. Don’t do anything. Please.”
A tremor vibrated through Rix’s body. Then he wrapped both arms around her, leaving his knife sheathed. “All I’ve ever wanted is your happiness,” he said, his voice a little rough. Then in his own whisper, he demanded, “How?”
Torin looked on, a slight furrow marring his brow. Amryn could just make out his confusion. It was echoed by Cregon, who stood on the opposite side of them. Both men were clearly wondering at the sudden embrace—and Amryn’s effusive words—when they’d both just witnessed Rix’s reaction to the marriage bracelet.
Amryn squeezed her uncle a little tighter. “I’ll explain everything later,” she murmured. When she drew back, it was clear Rix was not content with that answer.
“I’d like to add my congratulations,” Rhone said, his smile genuine as he took in Carver and Amryn—and the way Carver reached for her hand.
She twined her fingers with his, grateful for the contact. Especially when Rhone surprised her by taking her other hand, bringing it closer to inspect the bracelet.
She fought to ignore the unforgiving gold edge of the bone ring as it pressed against her skin.
Rhone glanced up at them, several emotions stirring in his chest as he said, “I’m glad something good could come from Esperance.”
“Thank you,” Carver said. His tone was deceptively calm, but his emotions were rioting.
