Alexander’s POV
The hall was alive with whispers when Joanne left. I watched her retreating form, Mary following after her, and my chest felt heavy. I knew this dinner wasn’t easy for her; I should have better prepared her myself for what was about to come. But I assumed Madam Rachel would take care of her.
I was wrong.
I knew it in my gut that something had happened during her training to make her feel as though she didn’t belong by my side.
When Lucia stood, saying she too needed to use the restroom, I was about to stand and follow after her, not trusting her to be around Joanne right now.
“Sit, Alexander,” my father ordered, his eyes remaining on his plate as he cut into his steak.
I was aware that every pair of eyes was on me at that moment, and I lowered myself back into my
