_Rowena's POV_
I had not planned to attend the wedding.
At half past eight, I was sitting beside my bedroom window in a simple morning dress, waiting for the Crown's decree to arrive. My trunks stood sealed against the wall. The clothes I intended to wear home lay across the bed.
Outside, music drifted from the south lawn.
My money had purchased excellent musicians.
Kyra gave a quiet snort. "Fifteen percent."
Before I could answer, raised voices echoed from the entrance hall.
The disturbance continued for several minutes. Then someone knocked.
Velvet opened the door to reveal Elira.
Kaelen's mother looked more unsettled than I had ever seen her. Her hands were clasped tightly at her waist.
"Rowena, may I speak with you?"
"Of course."
She stepped inside but did not sit.
"Severa
