Evanders POV
"Are you seriously asking me that?"
"Yes," he replied with a smile, his tone casual but his eyes sharp. "You are known for your wisdom, are you not? I am seeking your counsel."
"Interesting," I said, forcing a light tone. "But I'm afraid I don't have an answer for you."
Alaric watched me for a moment longer before turning away and walking back towards the window with his hands still clasped behind his back.
"I have been thinking about this for quite some time," he started slowly. "About what is best for the kingdom. About what is best for the Lady Ravena."
My chest tightened. "And what conclusion have you reached?"
He was silent for a moment. Then he spoke, his voice calm and measured. "I intend to marry her myself."
A wave of shock suddenly slammed through me. It was
