Esme's eyes widened with curiosity, "How can you tell?" she asked softly.
Donovan rose silently, his movement deliberate as he stepped a few paces ahead. He clenched his fist as if suppressing some kind of emotion, but his face gave no hints at all. He then unclenched his fists, tilting his head just enough to address her.
"You should return," he said, his voice calm but firm. The brightness in Esme's blue eyes dimmed at his dismissal. "Go to your parents, and focus on your health. I have work to do."
"But…" Esme hesitated, her voice wavering as she jabbed her index fingers together. "Father's planning a huge war right now, and I don't want to disturb him. Lennox is also consumed with court affairs, and I'm on my own until Father's done. Can you let me stay? I promise I won't get in your way while you work."
'this girl'