Fury of the Fallen

Chapter 5

Serena

If I hear him draw out that “ Ella “ one more time in that smug voice , I’ll throw a spoon at him .

I walked down the hallway toward our room , tying my apron so tight it felt like I was trying to squeeze the thoughts of Toren out of my body . It wasn’t working . What was that ? Ignoring me one minute , nitpicking the next , dragging Adelet away , then putting on that little show at the dinner table . Was this some kind of power game ?

“ Maybe I’m just convenient target , “ I muttered . “ Better to annoy me than be bored in a castle . “

Elvy was already lounging on her bed , munching an apple with a look that said she knew things .

“ He looked at you again , “ she announced .

“ Who ? “

She rolled her eyes .

“ Don’t play dumb . The commander . The one who always looks like he lost a crown instead of just his temper . “

I snorted and yanked off my apron .

“ Let him look . If he enjoys watching me set spoons perfectly - fine . Better that than another interrogation . “

“ Or maybe he’s studying how you pretend he doesn’t affect you . “

I turned away , pretending to be busy . Elvy didn’t buy it .

“ Oh , and did you hear ? “ she added

“ Hear what ? “

“ Lynnette said the king is planning to pick one of the girls for some special position at court . And apparently .. your name’s on the list . “

I froze .

“ My name ? “

“ Yup . Wouldn’t be surprised if someone important put it there . “

I said nothing . But inside , something twisted .

Important ?

Only one person had shown that much interest in me this week .

No . He wouldn’t . Would he ?

I lay down , turning to face the wall . Tried to sleep .

But all I could see was his eyes .