Page 45 of Hunger & Harmony

“Maybe you should relax,” Ezren says after the silence stretches. “We have until tomorrow night’s show to veg out.” He reaches forward to poke me square on my forehead. “I think you and your cursed life really need it.”

“Yeah . . .” I say, fighting off more pouting.

“Try not to let His Majesty’s burdens become your own, okay?”

I peer up at him. Ezren only smiles back. He always seems to know more than I think.

“I don’t . . .He’s not, like . . .I’m not⁠—”

“Yeah, yeah,” he says with a dismissive wave of his hand and a widening grin. “Get going.”

I reluctantly shuffle forward.

“Okay, but . . . let me know if you need me.”

“Roger that,” he says with a salute.

I weakly smile back before finally leaving. All this thinking is going to fry my brain.

My feet drag through the cozy hallway, not able to appreciate any of the fall-scented candles lit in every corner. I pass by a crackling fireplace and through stained-glass doors to head outside.

The wooden steps take me to the ground. This sprawling backyard forest feels more cozy than unnerving. I pass by a dormant fountain amid flowerbeds that must be so pretty in spring.

Nighttime feels freer here. Peaceful, with only the distant sounds of crashing waves cutting through chilly air.

It was a nice surprise to have my own little cabin in the backyard, even if I can’t see the cliff’s view from it. Gently lit lamps chase away the dark on the stone path leading up to it. I stuff my hands into my coat, both for warmth and to secure my key.

My mood lifts with every leaf crunched under my boots. Huh. It’s not only satisfying, but distracting, too. By the time I’m at my front door, I consider staying out here a little longer. Even with the clouds threatening a cold drizzle.

Just as the last of my worries fades, the very center of it all cuts right through my peace.

I stop short when I hear Niko’s voice from around the corner of my cabin. Not only his, but also Selene’s. What’re they doing back there?

“It’s sad that you listen to the Archduchess more than us.”

My eyes widen. I make absolutely no movement.

“You know that’s not true,” he responds.

Their voices are hushed, but the October air is so still that it almost amplifies their conversation.

“Then listen!”

Her exasperation echoes through the yard. I hold my breath.

“You know what happens when you push yourself like this. It’s not just your voice, Niklaus, it’s everything.”

I wince. Not just at her outburst, but that he denies nothing. They talk as equals, not as king and advisor. And I, more a jester than anything else, shouldn’t be here. Guilt gnaws at me as I remain in place, but not just because they’d hear me. It’s not fear that tethers me to the porch.

“She doesn’t know,” Selene continues, voice ragged with worry. “She hasn’t the slightest clue what she does to you. And you’re willing to bet on her indifference if you fall apart first?”

My silent breath crystallizes in the air. I’m not sure my heart could beat harder.

“She’s never been indifferent,” he whispers, words almost lost to the distant ocean.

“Nourish yourself, then,” she urges. “Not just when your aunt forces an ultimatum. If you can’t do it for yourself, do it for us. For her.”

Her?