“His Highness did not send away hiscompanybefore your arrival…”
Amerei let out a measured breath.
“That’s his daughter,” she said, recognizing her as the girl spun away.
They entered the suite—chambers dressed in silks catching the falling light. Jasmine glanced toward the parlor where Evander lingered, then eased the door halfway shut.
“Promise me,” she said to Amerei, voice low. “You won’t let him corner you. Men like Xavien prey on ladies’ naivety.”
Amerei covered a laugh, eyes meeting hers.
“Jasmine. We’ve no need to worry about that anymore.”
The corner of her mouth tipped.
“Tory's claimed me each night. Since the moment we were wed.”
Jasmine bit her lip, stifling a retort.
“Well… that explains why you’ve been walking like a battle mare and glowing like the moon.”
Amerei’s smile lingered. “It explains why I do not fear Xavien.”
She drifted back to the balcony, shadow falling across the column.
Below, Xavien still watched his children—
until a narrow, sharp-featured elf in scholar’s robes cut through the courtyard and bowed.
Urgent words at the prince’s ear.
A glance flicked upward—toward the consort’s wing.
Xavien’s chin lifted, tracking the windows. He settled his breath, nodded once, and followed the man into the inner corridors.
Jasmine steadied a hand on Amerei’s arm.
“Don’t. This is how court men make trouble.”
“It’s how court women end it,” Amerei said, turning away.
“Where are you going?” Evander asked, rising quickly.
“Stay here,” Amerei snapped. “If I’m not back in a quarter-hour, fetch the steward.”
He blocked her path.
“I’m not letting you out of my sight.”
“You will.”
“Amerei, you’re playing with fire.”
His brow furrowed, a spark in his eyes she’d never seen before.
“Líri warned me—you don’t know who your enemies are.”
“So I’ll stay here like his prisoner?”
