Chapter 31

Lily entered Kaden's chambers with slow and deliberate steps, her eyes scanning the room. The heavy oak door clicked shut behind her, muffling the sounds of the bustling castle outside. The air inside was tense, oppressive even, as if the room itself braced for the inevitable storm that was ahead.

Kaden stood near the tall arched window, his silhouette outlined against the hues of the setting sun. His back was turned, his hands gripping the edge of the stone sill tightly.

"You summoned me," Lily said, her voice firm but was edged with irritation.

Kaden didn't turn. "Do you know why you're here?"

"I have my suspicions," she replied, crossing her arms. "But I'd rather hear it from you."

At that, Kaden pivoted sharply to face her, his dark eyes locking onto hers with unyielding intensity. His jaw was clenched, a muscle twitching just below his temple.