“General Cole greets Envoy Vetle.”
That familiar low voice—my heart tightened. Cole was angry.
In panic, I took two steps back, but my legs gave way; I fell. The world spun—then a strong arm caught me, steadying me.
It was Vetle.
He bent down to help me, his breath enveloping me—so close it stole mine away.
“Are you all right?” His voice was calm and warm. I shook my head, unable to meet his eyes.
From the corner of my vision, I saw Cole watching coldly.
Why did I feel guilty?
Cole and I had long ceased to have anything to do with each other.
Who I was with now—had nothing to do with him.
In truth, he probably no longer cared.
I forced myself to breathe evenly, bowed slightly in greeting.
Vetle turned to him with a faint smile.
“Reporting to the Pope again?”
That single word—
