Kael’s POV
The truth is written on his face, but he pleads with me anyway.
“Please. If you spare me, I’ll tell you everything. I’ll help you get her back. I know what Lady Zari has planned. I know where they’ve taken her.”
“I don’t need your help.”
“You do!”
The desperation in his voice makes it crack.
“You do need me, Your Highness. The Tashina family has covered all their bases. They’ve prepared for every contingency. You’ll need a witness. Someone who can testify as to what really happened.”
An unsettled feeling churns in my stomach.
“What do you mean?”
“Lady Zari is at the palace with her father. There’s a trial being held right now. She’s accusing your mate of treason, of using forbidden magic against the crown. She has witnesses. She has evidence.”
The world is suddenly ver
