Kassian tore his eyes from the lively streets of the capital, glancing at the woman in the seat across from him. The carriage was moving slower than usual to avoid disturbing Sarea with abrupt stops or bothersome rocking, so it was taking twice as long to reach the palace. During that whole time, she hadn’t uttered a word, just stood still, staring outside with a thoughtful expression.
After the night of his birthday party, he had barely seen her. Her Head Maid had replied to his inquiries that her mistress was recuperating, but it was probably just Sarea ignoring him. Just like now.
“Are you sure you should be attending?” He broke the long, heavy silence and she finally moved, setting her eyes on him with an uninterested expression. “Are you well enough? Your health is more…”
“Why? Wou
