Page 181 of A Reign of Chromes & Shadows

Of course she’d ask now.

Snow had given him space, but clearly, she’d decided his grace period was over.

“Not exactly,” he muttered. “We’re just… not compatible.”

Snow scoffed loudly. Emily squeezed his arm tighter, offering silent comfort.

“It’s fine,” Rain continued, forcing a shrug. “He was right to end it. It would’ve been hard for me to do. And I’m not exactly in a position to offer long-term commitment to anyone. I wasn’t a good partner anyway.”

Snow’s expression hardened; she hated when he spoke about himself like that. To her, Rain deserved happiness more than anyone. And every time he got close to it, the universe seemed determined to rip it away.

“You’re allowed to make mistakes,” she said firmly, giving him a look that demanded he listen. “It’s not like you pursued him just to cheat on him. You and Ivy were betrothed—he knew that. Yes, you need to communicate better in the future. But the things you didn’t say were already obvious to everyone.”

Rain groaned.

Why was she bringing this up now?

He’d been having a good morning.

Besides, Jay hadn’t broken up with him because of Ivy. Jay had listened, understood, and forgiven him for that; it was more than Rain deserved.

“Yes, well… we live and learn,” Rain muttered, eager to escape the conversation.

Thankfully, the rest of the group approached, saving him from further interrogation.

Rogan eyed the trio curiously; Emily clinging to Rain’s arm like a comfort blanket, Snow looking smug, Rain looking like he wanted to sink into the earth.

“Anyone up for grabbing a coffee before we head off?” Rogan asked.

Most of the team agreed immediately. Snow, however, shook her head.

“I can’t join you. I need to return to the palace and prepare for travel.” She turned to the group with a bright smile. “My dear brother, however, is all yours. Please take good care of him for me.”

She kissed Rain’s cheek, then leaned into whisper.

“Don’t go home while we’re away. Please. I don’t want you alone with Father. I’ll be home Cyrday morning. See you then?”

Rain offered her a tight, reassuring smile.

He didn’t want to be alone with Azrien either.

But he needed to make sure the king had honoured their agreement. If not… Rain would have no choice but to confront him.

He cupped Snow’s chin gently, making sure she met his eyes.

“I don’t like that you’re returning without me,” he murmured. “Be safe. Stay away from him. And if you can’t—use your powers first and ask for forgiveness later.”

A blanket of worry flickered behind her eyes, though she tried to hide it. Rain felt it anyway.

She nodded, but as she turned to leave, he caught her hand.

“And tread carefully in Green,” he warned. “I know you have ideas but move with caution.”

She tutted loudly.

“Tsk. Brother, have faith. We share more than a womb—you know I can handle myself. I love you.”

She squeezed his hand, then turned to the others.