**Cassian**
Cassian was staring out his barred window when he heard the lock turn. He’d been awake all night, going over Marcus’s plan, trying to figure out how to walk the line between seeming cooperative and actively sabotaging his father’s efforts.
Lord Valerius entered with the self-satisfied expression of a predator who’d just cornered his prey.
“Excellent news,” he said without preamble. “Your little hybrid has saved us considerable trouble.”
Cassian turned, keeping his expression carefully neutral. “What do you mean?”
“She’s requested a meeting. With you, specifically.” Valerius moved to the window, gazing out at the estate grounds with obvious pleasure. “Laurent delivered her terms—she wants proof that you’re alive and unharmed before she’ll agree to meet with me.”
Relief flo
