“But what do they want? And if the message isn’t complicated, why did they bother to write the words in dead languages?”
“It’s almost like they wanted us to come here,” Damien said, adding himself to the conversation. “They knew none of us would understand the symbols.”
Evelyn considered it. “Did they want us to go to Lochmatten, or just leave Gryon?”
“If it’s the second option, we should get home quickly.”
They rounded a corner and saw Haydn approaching.
“I need a moment before you go, Your Majesty,” he said, catching Evelyn’s elbow. The Bargain magic wouldn’t let her shake him off.
Leo scowled and continued walking.
Damien frowned. “What’s this about?”
“Nothing of concern,” Haydn said lightly. “I’ll return her to you soon, Fontaine.”
“It’s fine,” Evelyn lied. “Go get packed. I’ll be up in a few minutes.”
Damien silently checked in with Simon and Rory before following Leo.
Evelyn turned to Haydn. “I need to go with myhusband.”
“That’s what we need to talk about.”
Haydn took her into a sitting room and closed the door, locking her guards out. “Stay in Lochmatten with me.”
“I’mmarried,” Evelyn reminded him.
“You will be mine. And it will be a lot easier if you agree to that now.”
“You have to let me go, Haydn.”
He laced their fingers together. “I can’t do that, love. You and I are meant to be together, and we will be. So why not save us the trouble of fighting later? Just say yes.”
“No!” Evelyn ripped her hands away.
“I will have you,” he whispered. “I’ve made plans for us.”
“I don’t care!”
“This is your last chance before I make the decision for you. Stay with me.”
“I. Am. Not. Yours.”
Haydn stared at Evelyn for several heartbeats before a wicked smile crossed his face. “Fine. I will see youverysoon, my love.”
70
Husband
Leo left before Evelyn had finished packing, claiming he was needed on the ship early.
Evelyn and Damien walked out of the castle together. The High Councilors were waiting on the front steps to officially send them off.
Moeller inclined his head. “What a shame you have to leave so soon.”
“Try not to cry as our ship departs,” Evelyn deadpanned.
