Cassien's POV
“I brought these and she can't see me?!” Sterling barked at the innocent maid, who shivered at his tone.
“Where is she?” he asked, his tone calm.
“I... I don't know. She leaves early and returns late,” the maid again replied.
“Is she avoiding me?” His tone dropped somewhat remorsefully.
“I don't know. She's been avoiding everyone,” the maid replied.
“General Sterling,” I called out, strolling down the stairs with a practiced smile.
They both bowed, chorusing. “Your Majesty,”
“Leave us,” I ordered the maid, turning to Sterling.
“Isn't it too early to yell in my palace?”
“I apologize for my rudeness, Your Majesty. I lost my control.” He lowered his head.
“At your cousin or at the innocent maid?”
His gaze remained down. “Walk with me,” I said, taking the lead, hands
