chapter 31

Abbie The scent of fresh bread and the clattering utensils welcome us, a stark contrast to the tension I just witnessed between Azalea and Kyson. “So what’s up with you and the King?” I venture, my voice barely rising above the domestic symphony as I glance sideways at her. Her gaze has a faraway quality, one that hints at inner turmoil and whispers conspiracies. “Nothing.” She flicks a dismissive hand, but her eyes, churning with unsaid emotions, tell a different story. “I just think he is hiding stuff. No. I know he is hiding stuff.” Her shrug tries to convey indifference, but it is a poor mask for the frustration lacing her tone. “I asked him about the council and what happened the other day, and he never answered,” she admits, her voice dipping into the well of secrets that seems to pool between them. I watch her closely, noting how her fingers trail along the countertop, skimming over the cool marble as if searching for answers on its smooth surface. There is a determination set i