Wrong

So it begins.

He didn't trust Merrow. The man was a master of veiled words and long games. His sudden appearance wasn't diplomacy; it was a calculated move. And the fact that he acknowledged Liora… Lucien's jaw tightened.

Behind him, Rowan entered, the door closing with a click.

"You saw it?" Lucien asked, not turning.

"I did." Rowan's voice was grim. "He didn't just speak to the court. He paused. He studied Liora like she was an unopened scroll hiding state secrets."

Lucien finally turned, tossing the letter onto the table.

"He's probing."

Rowan frowned. "Do you think he knows about her parentage?"

"Not yet," Lucien said. "But he's trying to find out why she matters to me. That's dangerous."

Rowan gave him a pointed look. "She does matter to you."

Lucien didn't respond.

He didn't need to.

The silence was answer enough.