Lorien’s POV
There were still too many questions hanging in the air, and none of them had answers. Before we could speak, Queen Elara excused herself, leaving us stranded in silence and confusion.
I turned toward Riven, forcing a smile that didn’t reach my eyes. It had taken every ounce of restraint to remain civil after the stunt he pulled last night, but I needed him for now. If keeping him on my side meant biting my tongue and pretending to be pleasant, I’d do it. Even if every instinct warned me he was slick, manipulative, and impossible to trust.
“Before you go, I’d like a word alone with my mate,” Auren said, his voice rough with authority. A shiver ran down my spine. I hated that I loved how easily that word mate rolled off his tongue, like it belonged there.
Riven hesitated, cl
