He took a seat on the bench. “Tori says you went home this week.”
“I did. My nannies were sick,” I said. I hated how easily the lie came the second time around. “Sorry I didn’t get your letters.”
“It’s alright. We can talk now,” Ash said. “I’m looking for Peter right now. I’ll have to check the Witch Market—”
“I don’t think this is the best place to discuss this,” I said, fiddling with my gloves. I felt Narcissa’s glare again. She was closer now.
“You’re right. Let’s get out of here.”
I gripped the bench when Ash offered his hand. “Oh. I...I can’t go.”
He tilted his head. “Why not?”
Narcissa walked over. I decided to let her do the talking, which probably wasn’t the best idea.
“She wants to stay with me,” Narcissa said. “Your Highness.”
Ash gave me a questioning look, but I turned my head away.
“After all, my mother worked very hard to put this soirée together. It would be rude to leave in the middle of it, wouldn’t it?”
“It would,” I said quietly. “I’m sorry. I would much rather stay.”
I kept my head turned, but hearing Ash’s voice was enough to make me miserable.
“I see. I won’t keep you from enjoying the gathering.” With a stiff bow, he was gone.
Narcissa narrowed her eyes. “What were you two talking about?”
“Nothing. Nothing at all.”
26
Perspiration dampenedmy back as I sprinted to Miriam’s shop the next afternoon, wiping the ashes off my face. I had thrown on a clean gown before setting out, though the sleeves were already soiled with grime. My crystal pulsed incessantly. I was late. Lana would not be pleased.
“Amarante? Is that you?”
