Sano nodded in agreement. “Verywise.”
“It is.” Finnr fixed his flinty eyes on Angelique. “But the presence of darkness is not an excuse to act wild—or to disregardethics.”
What have I done that disregards ethics? Yes, I have “meddled” by helping royal families survive, but I think it would be worse to stand by and watch them die!Angelique forcibly swallowed her reply—even if she didn’t care if they scoffed at her anymore, she still needed their help. Releasing a tirade would hardly endear them to hercause.
“Well?” Finnrprompted.
Chapter 13
Another knockat the door saved Angelique from having to reply. “Yes?” shecalled.
Prince Lucien poked his head through the doorway. “Lady Enchantress, I am sogladto see you, as I missed your presence at dinner lastnight.”
Angelique forced a laugh. “Yes, I was fatigued from my journey and thought it was best to dine in my room.”Because I was trying to avoidyou.
“I am sure,” Lucien said. “I was going to ask if you would like to see the Chateau library—though perhaps this is a bad time given your company?” He curiously peered at the mages, oblivious—or perhaps uncaring—of the tension in theroom.
This is my chance to end this conversation—because even Lucien’s terrible flirting is better thanthis!
“Actually,” Angelique smiled. “I believe we just finished ourconversation.”
Finnr did not look content, but Sybilla batted her hand through the air. “She’s right, of course. Come along, everyone. Princess Elle spoke of refreshments being served in thegardens.”
Sybilla sailed from the room, pausing just long enough to wink at Angelique before she was on her way, the other mages reluctantly trailing behindher.
“Then let’s also make our retreat.” Lucien offered out his arm, which Angeliqueignored.
I should probably tell Severin that the spells are ready, so he can decide when to break the news to Lucien.Angelique shut her bedroom door and joined Lucien in the hall. “Where is thelibrary?”
“Ah, I thought that offer might interest you. You always seem to be lurking in the palace library.” Lucien furrowed his brow, perhaps puzzled by the thought the library was a desirablelocation.
“Though I have visited Chanceux Chateau several times, I have not yet seen the library,” Angelique said carefully. “I have spent most of my time in thegardens.”
“That’s no surprise.” A real smile temporarily flashed across Lucien’s face. “Severin’s flowers must be the best in thecontinent!”
Angelique could tell the moment Lucien’s thoughts slipped from pride over his brother, for his smile was replaced with a sort of smug, smarmy grin. “We should tour the gardens together after I show you thelibrary.”
“I could not possibly monopolize your time for solong.”
“Ahhh, but it’s not monopolizing if Iwantto spend it with you!” Lucien actuallywinkedat her and gave her a smile that said he clearly expected her to beimpressed.
Instead, she had to suffocate the desire to punch his perfect nose.I can’t wait to transform him. I’m willing to cast the spell on him because I know by the affection he holds for Severin that he can’t be all bad, but I will delight in his time as a transformed animal because he deserves every second of it!“You forget your station, Your Highness,” Angelique stressed the title. “You are a prince, to be shared byall.”
Lucien puffed his chest up. “Perhaps you’re right. But as you said, I am a prince—so who will try to correctme?”
I would like to.With a good spell—or perhaps even a fist. Ugh, he might be a good brother, but he’s such a slimylittle—
Unaware of her thoughts, Lucien blithely continued, “Will you not spend the afternoon with me, LadyEnchantress?”
“I'm afraid I will have to refuse,” Angelique said through grittedteeth.
Lucien shook his head—assumedly because he knew it made his handsome appearance more woeful looking. “How could you be so cruel? My day shall be ruined if you do not agree to a stroll through my brother'sgardens.”
Angelique stopped walking.Your day shall be ruined? Oh, I’ll ruin it for you.She turned to face the prince. “I'm afraid your day will be ‘ruined’ then, for you will not be going for a stroll—regardless of whether or not I accompanyyou.”
Lucien tugged at his ridiculously puffed breeches. “Whatever do youmean?”
Change of plans. I’m not going to give Severin time to warn Lucien. I’m technically doing this spell free-of-charge, so watching Lucien’s reaction, instead, will be my payment.Angelique smiled, unable to keep true joy off her lips. “Due to the recent attempts on your life, both your brother and your father officially requested that I intervene and do whatever is necessary to see that you are properly protected during this insecuretime.”
