Page 58 of A Reign of Chromes & Shadows

Bollocks.

Chapter 23

“Aunt,” Rain said warmly, leaning in to kiss Igna’s cheek. “Uncle. It’s good to see you.” He shook King Edmond’s hand, who returned the gesture with a curt nod.

“You look irresistibly handsome tonight, darling,” Igna said, fussing with the collar of his jacket. Her energy was kind as always but threaded with guilt and sorrow that she was desperately trying to hide. Rain offered her a reassuring smile, and her own carefully composed expression faltered.

“Tell me, why is my daughter not by your side this evening?” Edmond demanded, wasting no time. The Green Kingdom rarely danced around their intentions. “Wearing ghastly purple, might I add.”

Rain blinked, taken aback. He’d expected Ivy to blindside him, but he was certain she would have secured her father’s blessing before making such a bold political statement. Wearing Purple wasn’t just a personal choice; it was a declaration. Against him. Against the Blue Kingdom. Breaking their betrothal was one thing; aligning herself with Purple without consent was another. It was reckless. Dangerous. Potentially an act of war. He was certain his father would view it as such.

Igna suddenly became very interested in the symmetry of her pleats.

Rain considered telling Edmond the truth, but he couldn’t bring himself to open that can of worms. This was Ivy’s mess. She needed to be the one to explain it.

“I wouldn’t dare presume the reasoning behind any female’s actions, Uncle,” Rain replied smoothly.

“She looks positively radiant as always,” he added just as a server returned with his drink. Perfect timing. Rain took a generous sip, letting the heat settle in his chest.

“It is quite an offensive gesture, don’t you think, Your Highness?” a voice barked beside Edmond.

Rain startled. He hadn’t even noticed the male standing there; Lochlan Ness, a short, sharp-tongued nobleman from the Blue Court known for stirring trouble wherever he could. Rain blamed his intoxication for missing him entirely.

“You cannot possibly be insinuating my daughter would do something to cause strife between our kingdoms, Lochlan,” Edmond snapped.

“I’m not insinuating anything,” Ness said, far too boldly. “It is as clear as daylight. Princess Ivy made a very interesting statement on behalf of your kingdom. I was shocked you allowed such an action, but now I see she acted alone.”

Rain’s stomach twisted. Ness’s energy was smug, confident; he clearly believed Rain would protect him if the Green King reacted poorly. Poor judgement on his part.

“Your Highness,” Ness continued, addressing Rain, “it brings me no pleasure to say this, but I feel duty-bound to ensure you are aware. I couldn’t help but notice the very sizable engagement ring upon the Princess’s hand this evening. I assume it is not a gift from yourself, given the lack of an official announcement and its deep violet hue”

Rain froze, fingers tightening around his glass. How was he supposed to respond to that?

Edmond’s energy darkened, storm clouds gathering, ready to unleash on the nobleman. But Igna spoke first—her voice trembling.

“It’s just a phase. You know how Ivy is,” she blurted out.

Edmond’s furious gaze snapped to his wife.

“Darlings,” Igna rushed on, “I didn’t say anything because I was sure—no, I am absolutely certain—this is just Ivy acting out. She is impulsive, and she has waited her whole life for the marriage she was promised. Patience isn’t her strong suit, and she has been incredibly patient over the years.”

“Are you blaming our Prince for her disgraceful actions?” Ness gasped dramatically.

“No! Rain, darling, no.” Igna grabbed his wrist, her eyes pleading, her desperate energy twisting in his gut.

“Where is that girl?” Edmond growled, face flushed with fury as he shoved past Rain and stormed across the ballroom.

“Edmond, please—you’re going to cause a scene,” Igna hissed, hurrying after him, skirts swishing in panic.

Heads turned. Conversations faltered. Gossip ignited like wildfire.

Rain stared after them, stunned, as they marched toward the Purple Court—toward the thrones where his parents sat.

Fuck.

Even through the haze of alcohol, the implications clicked into place. He shot Ness a look of pure irritation; the male looked far too pleased with himself. Rain made the split-second decision to follow the Green regents.

Snow caught up to him, grabbing his hand instinctively. The sudden shutdown of his empathic power made him stumble at the sensory whiplash. She snatched her hand back, whispering an apology, eyes full of questions she didn’t dare voice.