Thas extended his arm with effortless charm.
“Then lead the way, my Lady.”
She took it—because she had to.
As they walked into the castle, servants scattering like frightened birds, River felt the weight of his presence infecting every corridor, every breath. But she held herself like steel under silk.
And inside, her mind raced.
I hope Heiko would return soon. Alone, I can’t hold him off forever.
But until Heiko returned—this was her battlefield.
And she would not yield.
--
The warm, fragrant halls of Almira Castle bustled with new energy as River took charge of the preparations for the evening.
“Make ready a late dinner,” she instructed with quiet authority. “Fit for the Crown Prince, who is our guest. Fresh bread, warm stew, roasted meats, fruit, and two kinds of wine. Bring
