Cassie stood on the training grounds and observed warriors drilling. Her attention was elsewhere. It had been for days.
Since her return to the palace, Mark had hardly glanced at her. He had not said much. He had kept himself occupied with war reports, council sessions, and solo rides.
She found it really uncomforting. Mark was the one always there. Concerned about her. He was literally obsessed with her.
But now it seems different. He was distant and cold.
She had waited patiently. But no longer.
“I just want peace,” she whispered to herself. “A life where I’m not being hidden, or doubted, or left behind.”
The wind shifted, carrying the scent of pine and something faintly familiar, Mark.
Cassie turned and saw him walking back from the stables. She stepped into his path.
“Mark,”
