“I’ve been busy.”
“You’ve always been busy,” she replied. “But this is different.”
I said nothing.
She reached across the table and placed her hand gently over mine. Her skin was warm and clammy. I resisted the urge to pull away.
“Kael,” she said and tilted her head like she was trying to read me. “Is everything okay?”
“Yes,” I lied.
“Don’t lie to me,” she whispered. “I know you better than that. Something is bothering you.”
I hesitated. “Just… stress. Pack duties. Too many decisions lately.”
She shook her head slowly. “No. That’s not what it is. There’s something else.”
Her grip on my hand tightened slightly.
“You know you can tell me anything,” she said, her voice low and syrupy. “I’m always here for you. We’re going to get married soon, Kael. I’ll be your wife. There should be
