“Now I see it again. And that’s concerning me. Don’t tell me you’re planning something that would disappoint us all.” He approached me slowly.
My sweat drenched palms caught in the folds of my dress.
“We need Thalen. The fate of this kingdom requires this marriage to goexactlyas planned.” He leaned over me until I cowered.
I had to think quickly. His suspicion couldn’t linger.
“You misunderstood the look.”
His jaw tightened.
“It’s triumph. You don’t see my hatred, brother.” With my words, he eased his stance. “You see my joy.”
“It looks nothing like happiness.”
“Don’t steal my moment from me.” I turned from him. My face would give everything away before I even decided which fate would be mine.
“Your Highnesses, I’m sorry to interrupt, but I promised Lord Thalen I would find Princess Aelira.” Reina’s curls blew softly in the wind.
Agan’s gaze softened.
“There you are.” Thalen trailed behind her. “I’ve been looking all over for you.”
“Perhaps you will share a dance with me so we can give them a moment.” Agan held his hand to Reina.
“I would love to.” Reina beamed as he led her out onto the dance floor.
“Finally,” he said, “a moment alone in the moonlight with you.” Thalen extended his hand to me.
I reluctantly placed mine in his. With each step we took, I reminded myself of how tonight needed to look—how calmand strong I needed to be. He swept a wavy tendril away from my eyes and traced my face.
“Tomorrow you will be my wife.” His fingers trailed down my arm.
I didn’t want to be—I wasn’t given a choice at all. He didn’t even notice me shaking.
The starlight glimmered down on the terrace, down on me. I wished they could guide me, was desperate for answers the fae found in them, but only silence hung between Thalen and me. Thalen’s eyes closed, his lips hovering over mine.
“It would be more romantic if we save it for tomorrow.” His heart raced beneath my palm as I gently separated us.
“Very well, but tomorrow, you will be mine. I won’t wait any longer.”
My chest constricted under the weight of my gown, but instead I held a smile that couldn’t have fooled anyone.
“There is much to prepare for tomorrow. Perhaps I should retire for the night.” My words flowed so smoothly, even I almost believed them.
“Until tomorrow, my bride.” His lips grazed my hand.
The ivory gown dragged over the stone walkway until I walked safely around the corner. My back slid against the cold stone wall. An exhale finally escaped me.
He wouldn’t kiss me again…at least not tonight.
Chapter 6
It was my wedding day, but there wouldn’t be a celebration—because I wouldn’t marry Thalen.
The stars held my fate. I knew so little of their power, but in their twilight, a quiet certainty settled. My destiny was on the other side of the divide—in Nythrel—with the fae.
The scent of my lavender tea washed over me. Milana looked at the riding dress I laid out on my bed. I tucked my satchel near my feet as she clutched my riding boots.
