“Mind your own business, Marina.”
Her palm connects with the back of my head in a sharp smack. “Be respectful when you speak to your elders, little brother.”
I rub my scalp, muttering, “Sorry.”
“Better. Look, I know several respectable noble ladies who would be perfect for you. Lady Catherine of House Meridian has excellent bloodlines and impeccable manners.” She adjusts her sleeves with finality. “I’m setting up a meeting for next week. You’d better be there.”
“Marina, I really don’t—”
“No arguments, Seth.” Her voice brooks no disagreement. “You’re twenty-eight years old. It’s time.”
Before I can protest further, she sweeps away down the corridor, her heels clicking against the stone with decisive authority. I watch her go, knowing that arguing with Marina when she has made up her m
