“I was hoping to speak urgently with His Highness, Lord Heiko. Matters of considerable importance,” he said, voice deliberately vague, his eyes searching her face as if trying to unearth secrets.
But River’s gift—the empathic pulse that never lied—flared inside her. His emotions were well-masked, but not entirely hidden: deceit, greed, anticipation, and a flicker of lust that made her wolf growl within.
“Lord Heiko is not available at the moment,” she said calmly, keeping her expression neutral. “So you may either convey your message through me, or send it by official courier.”
Diego’s smile turned mocking. “No doubt he’s resting from… the burdens of leadership. Or perhaps he’s simply overwhelmed by the scope of his new duties.”
He took another step forward, too close. His aura oozed e
