The air in the grand courtyard leading to the Elders’ Council chamber was unexpectedly calm, carrying the crisp, sweet scent of mountain pine and wild lilies. But the serenity did not deceive Lane.
She walked with a steady, unhurried stride, her dark green gown sweeping the stone floor, until she rounded the final pillar near the entrance and caught sight of Ethan.
He was standing near the heavy oak doors, completely absorbed in a small, crumpled piece of parchment in his hands. He was reading it under his breath, his voice catching in the quiet air:
"...make sure to take Lane's half of her money."
The words struck Lane with a sudden, silent sharpness. A cold ache bloomed in the center of her chest, and it would be a lie if she said she hadn't held even the slightest, most fragile shr
