Chapter 43: Caught off Guard

Nick wasn’t sure what to expect after giving Tris the news that her mother was missing, but it wasn’t denial. It’s been a week since he broke the news, and any time he brings it up, Tris just laughs.

“She’s clearly hiding out with my father,” she says, absolute acceptance in her tone.

Nick doesn’t argue with her, they have enough to worry about right now and he doesn’t want to push the subject. All week long they have been training with the old King and Queen. Tris has been taking lessons from Granny Nora on how to be a strong leader, and he’s been spending most of his time with Draco.

Even though their days are busy, the couple gets to relax at night. Tris will curl up on his lap with a book after dinner, reading aloud to Nick about the history of the Kingdom and the Isles that border it. They have learned a lifetime of information in a matter of seven days.