Elena’s eyes narrowed, her smile fading just a little.
“That respect is a problem,” she said flatly. “And that’s where you come in. Evan might admire Darius, but his love for you is newer, fresher. Emotional bonds influence men far more than old loyalties do.”
Lyria nodded slowly, thoughts churning in her head.
So that’s the angle.
She was supposed to be the voice whispering doubt into Evan’s ear. The one who reminds him that Darius stands between him and what should have been his future. The one who convinces him he deserves more. That he deserves the title. The throne. And her.
Elena’s voice softened again, but her eyes stayed sharp.
“He needs to see that Darius is not his friend. That even blood can become an enemy when it stands in your way. And you,” she added with meaning, “wil
