Daniel’s POV
Something between us broke after the poisoning.
It wasn’t loud. There was no argument, no raised voice, no sharp command that echoed through the halls. It was quieter than that—which is more painful.
It was the way Arthur stopped looking at me the same way. The way his eyes, once intense and searching, yet still warm, now turned cold and distant.
And I knew why.
He believed I didn’t trust him.
In the days after the failed poisoning, Arthur kept his word about keeping me safe. His guards followed me everywhere. My quarters were watched day and night. No one was allowed near my work without permission.
But Arthur himself… changed.
He no longer lingered in the kitchen.
He no longer spoke to me in low, private tones.
He no longer asked questions that had nothing to do w
