Zara’s POV
I hated strategy meetings.
Not because of maps.
Maps were honest.
Lines, distances, terrain, risk.
Simple.
I hated them because they ended with Greyson walking out to prepare himself as bait while I stood in a room full of people pretending not to notice I had nearly confessed myself into public humiliation.
The chamber emptied in stages.
Kael left first, efficient as always.
Davon lingered long enough to grin at me obnoxiously.
“You said you needed him alive.”
“Leave.”
“With joy. I haven’t enjoyed anything this much in weeks.”
Selene gave me one unreadable look and followed him out.
Mirelle was last.
She gathered her maps with elegant precision.
“You care for him deeply,” she said without looking up.
I stiffened.
“I care that my allies remain alive.”
“Of cour
