I stood near the window of Jenna's shop, watching Clara Meadows and Cassian interact outside. There was an undeniable tension between them that went beyond their fake engagement. Anyone with eyes could see it, even if they couldn't.
"They make an interesting pair," Reed commented, sidling up beside me.
I nodded. "Indeed. Though Cassian seems determined to maintain it's all pretense."
Reed snorted. "My brother was always stubborn. Even as children, he'd deny having a favorite toy while clutching it in his sleep."
His bluntness made me smile. After months of marriage to Alaric, I'd grown accustomed to the direct manner of his men. They didn't sugarcoat their words or treat me like I might shatter. It was refreshing.
"You don't approve?" I asked.
Reed crossed his arms. "It's not my place to approve or disapprove, Your Grace."
"But if it were?"
