“You're not eating," the maid observed, setting down the untouched tray.
Vera didn't look up. “Does starvation count as treason?"
The girl flinched. “The Emperor will be here soon."
Vera's fork scraped the plate. “Let me guess. More moon nonsense?"
Before the maid could answer, a sharp knock echoed. The balcony doors swung open—Carlisle stood framed in cold wind, moonlight catching on his pauldrons like frostbite.
He dismissed the maid with a glance. She scurried out.
“I said no visitors," Vera muttered.
“I'm not a visitor."
He stepped inside, and the air shifted. The talisman at her throat hummed faintly. Her heartbeat quickened against her will.
Carlisle approached, stopping a mere foot away. “You still think this is a cage."
“It has bars. Guards. Chains you can't see. What els
