Why did I say it like that was even an option? And what is that look Damien is giving me?
His quizzical expression shifted into a smirk. “I’m not interested in redheads, anyway. And who needs a soulmate when I can have a third sister to pick on?”
Damien kissed Evelyn’s cheek, which was a ruse to pluck a single strand of hair off her head.
“Ow!” Evelyn complained, rubbing her scalp before slapping his hand.
“Leave the princess alone!” Lady Nadine scolded.
Desirée’s mouth hung open in shock, but Daphne was barely containing her laughter.
“You’re younger than them,” Damien told Evelyn, pointing at his sisters. “They outrank you here.”
“I’m pretty sure that’s not how it works,” she grumbled.
Daphne walked over to Evelyn and looped an arm with hers. “Clearly, you already know Alexander is the better option.” She steered Evelyn toward the front door. “It’s refreshing to see a womannotfall for Damien’s charms.”
“Someone finds him charming?” Evelyn asked.
“Against all odds, there have been rumors of it happening.”
“I can hear you!” Damien called from behind them.
“I know!” Daphne said.
Evelyn and Daphne strolled inside. Rory and Simon joined them, having just returned from Commander Magalie’s office.
I can smell lunch from here. I didn’t have a chance to eat breakfast in the chaos of this morning. No wonder I’m so jittery.
Lord Nicolas popped into the hallway. “Is that my darling Daphne?”
A huge smile spread over Daphne’s face. She dropped Evelyn’s arm and rushed to hug him.
“Gem of the kingdom,” Nicolas said affectionately, lifting her chin.
“Liar of the land,” Daphne teased. “I’m not the jewel you want.”
Nicolas lowered his voice conspiratorially. “Then tell your brother to stop fussing over the princess and visit the Vision Court.”
Laughter echoed out of the dining room where the lords had already gathered.
Daphne’s smile faltered. “Is my father here?”
Nicolas nodded. “Evelyn nearly tried to kill him a few days ago, though I didn’t catch why.”
Evelyn’s face reddened. “Damien wouldn’t let me. He said there were too many witnesses.”
Daphne seemed pleased by that and moved back to Evelyn’s side. “I think you and I will be great friends.”
“Well, that’s just what this world needs,” Damien said sarcastically, catching up to them. “A princess and a witch joining forces.”
Daphne scoffed. “Fuck you, Damien. At least make me a sorceress.”
“I never saidyouwere the witch, sweet sister.” Damien winked and rested an arm around Evelyn’s shoulders.
Evelyn glared up at him. “I didn’t hit you hard enough earlier.”
Lady Nadine and Desirée joined them in the hall. Desirée’s gaze lingered too long on Rory as she passed him. When Evelyn checked on Rory, his eyes were also fixed on Desirée.
