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“Willow, it’s nothing. Forget I even said it.” Juniper starts to stand, but I catch her hand.
“Are Caz and Alora sleeping together?” I ask, softening my voice.
“Love of Vakeeli, no!” Juniper exclaims, but her answer doesn’t satisfy me. My heart is pumping faster, and there’s a burning in my chest that’s bubbling up to my head.
As if she notices my irritation, Juniper sighs and sits back down. “Okay, look, it was many years ago. Literally when they first met. And I only know because I saw him coming out of her chambers that night. I don’t think it was serious. They never did anything like it again. They’ve only remained allies. Trust me, you have nothing to worry about.”
I look from Juniper to Rowan and Maeve who are standing near the balcony, chatting. I’m not sure why it bothers me so much, knowing this. I mean, I didn’t know Caz before a few weeks ago, and yet this reality stings.
I realizewhyit stings as I look at Alora. She’s graceful, patient, kind, and beautiful. Any man would want her. Even mine…
Then again, is Caz reallymyman? Or are we just bound to this Tether, sinking into the satisfaction it provides?
I stand and walk around the table. “I’m gonna get some sleep.”
“Oh, come on, Willow!” Juniper groans. “Don’t leave!”
“I’m fine,” I tell her, forcing a smile. “I’m just really tired after that ride here.” It’s a boldface lie, but she takes it, so I leave the balcony, and as I go, I feel eyes on me. I glance over my shoulder to find Alora watching me leave.
I wander through the palace until I find the chambers I was in last time and close the large door behind me, lock it, and then take off my boots. After removing my cloak, blouse, and pants, I pull down the thick quilt and climb into the bed, pulling it over me. Lying down doesn’t calm my racing heart, though. And my mind races even faster.
I thought he didn’t like to be touched. Did he enjoy whatever he did with Alora? God, why do I even care? It was a long time ago, and we’ve only just met.
I flop onto my back, staring up at the ceiling. Gold stars are painted up there, glowing in the night. It’s like staring up at the night sky.
Willow.
I gasp when I hear his voice, and damn it, even when I’m upset with him, I get butterflies from it.
I hear you.
Good. I’ve just left The Council. Apologies for blocking you out for so long.
How did it go?
It was…a lot. I’ll fill you in when I see you.
Fine.
There’s silence for a moment. Then:Everything all right?
Yep. Everything’s fine.
Doesn’t sound like it. Have you gone to see Beatrix yet?
No. We’re staying until tomorrow. Beatrix is hunting or something.
Quiet again.I sense some anger. Why are you upset?
I’m not upset.
You can’t lie when I can feel it, Willow. What’s going on? Has someone hurt you?
“No!” I say out loud, then I sigh, sitting up against the upholstered headboard.
Well, if no one’s hurt you, what’s the matter? You’re stewing about something.
I close my eyes a moment, then sigh.
