Alexander Cassandra never returned that night and I didn't get any more sleep. The way she had addressed me so formally after I professed my intentions for her in front of everyone hurt. It hurt far worse than I thought it could. I realized she would be worried about how everyone would view her, but I never imagined such a thing would drive her away. Even as I sat in a war meeting the next morning, I couldn't focus. I couldn't be bothered to worry about it when all I could think about was Cassandra. How was I going to fix this? Could I even fix this? Had I selfishly driven her away for good? I didn't even notice when the meeting came to an end until I looked to find the table and room empty. The guard at my side shifted uneasily. I sighed harshly. I stood and made my way to my study. I t

