“No, that’s not it.” I shook off his comments as I would if he’d been my father. “I have found my mated, andsheis who I will marry.”
Saying the words had sounded like a lie, though I knew it was impossible. Were I not there when Elowen set the bond into place, I wouldn’t have believed in its existence.
“So what are your intentions with my daughter if not to marry? Will you be parading her around and stealing her youth until you’ve found another to keep in the shadows? Does your betrothed not have the ability to provide an heir, so you must take Maris’s future from her?”
“N—No.” The word stuttered on my tongue.
“Then what is it? Are you hand delivering her back to me?”
I blew out a breath to slow the conversation. It hadn’t started as I’d hoped, and if I wasn’t careful, I’d do more damage than good. I wasn’t even sure what my intentions with Maris were. Having her around had brought me the consistent comfort so badly missing from my relationship with Audryn.
“As you are aware, my father is ill.” I hesitated. “What you may or may not know is that his life is nearing its end.”
“Continue,” Levi grunted. “Ask for what it is you want from me.”
I swallowed and glanced around for wine, water, or any beverage that could quench my dry throat, but came up empty. “Your support. With my father’s imminent death, I would like tostrengthen ties with the people. And it is my understanding that you represent the people of the capital.”
He let out an approving hum.
It was the sign I needed, so I ran with it. “You have built a powerful presence in the area, and the people look up to you. Your daughter looks up to you. It would be my privilege to gain support from such a prominent figure.”
“And my daughter?—”
“I cannot change my decision on who the land has given me,” I said. “What I can offer her is a life with my wife and me. Not in the shadows, but at our side.” The offer slipped through my lips without giving any thought. “She can act as an emissary to all women who cross the castle gates.”
“I would like grandchildren.” Levi negotiated.
“Done. I am healthy and will provide you with such immediately after I am given an heir from my wife.” I threw out a hand, offering to seal the deal. “She will be provided monetary compensation for her position—your family will be provided compensation.”
“I would like financial backing for our neighbor’s property in order to extend our land.” He looked at my hand and then up at me.
I exhaled. Taking the land of others, even if purchased, was rarely acceptable—especially when the buyer already had a surplus of property. But I couldn’t risk losing the connection, especially when the people were so fickle in their opinions.
“Done,” I replied, and our hands shook. “I am having a gathering of nobles in a week and expect you to be in attendance. My sister will send the details.”
17
COLGRAVE
Iknocked on the door, but silence greeted me from the other side. I knew she was frustrated with Fisher, and assumed that was why she’d skipped dinner, but my concern grew into fear when she didn’t join us for breakfast.
“Audryn?” I knocked louder. “Are you okay?”
Still no answer.
Setting down the tray of food, I turned the knob and was surprised to find the door unlocked. I pushed it open and was met with darkness, despite the sun having risen hours before. The drawn curtains shadowed her curled figure on the bed.
My stomach sank.
“Are you awake?” I sat on the edge of the bed and pushed her locks back. Relief filled my chest when she shifted and looked up at me.
“Is everything okay?” Her voice was hoarse as she rubbed her face. “Is it the seeps?”
“The seeps are fine,” I lied; two more had stopped. “Sorry to wake you. I was worried after you missed dinner. And then when you skipped breakfast, well, I wanted to bring you some food. I’ll leave it on the side table.” The food might be cold bythe time she got around to it, but at least she’d have the option if she wanted. I retrieved the tray, placed it on the table, and went to leave.
“Don’t go,” she murmured as she sat up in bed. “I’m sorry for how I acted.”
There was no reason for her to issue an apology when I was the one who’d treated her like a Sutton. I sat down, taking a moment to consider my response.
