Page 103 of Captive of Secrets and Storms

Could Anders know about a cure?

No.

If he did, Rian would know. The others would know…

Wouldn’t they?

Heavy bootsteps echo between the shelves. My questions skitter away.

A formidable presence looms at my back. My spine snaps straight as I draw in a breath.

The sharp, spicy scent of incense fills my nose.

Then a fierce growl curls into my ear. “What the hells are you doing here?”

20

Rian’s anger hits me before I even turn—thick, fierce, and palpable.

The Shadow Prince’s nostrils flare. Violence swirls through the air like the tornado from the air wielder during today’s contest. His dark eyes pierce the Mountain Fae’s with a glare that would be accompanied by suffocating shadows if not for the manacles clasped to his wrists.

I should be afraid. Or at the very least wary. That would be the logical response to the infuriated, powerful male standing in front of me.

Instead, the vise I hadn’t realized was crushing my lungs loosens. I draw my first full breath of the day—the first since I stepped into the hall and found the Shadow Fae gone.

Then my gaze dips, and I frown.

Before Anders can respond to Rian’s rude greeting, I blurt, “What are you wearing?”

A simple black toga, plain and sharp, lays against Rian’s skin. The unique tunic is tucked into the waist of charcoal-gray trousers that disappear into tall black boots that end just below his knees. The attire is a stark contrast to the colorful hues everyone else here drapes over themselves.

Rian’s eyes slide to mine. “I didn’t realize my wardrobe was your concern, Sunshine.”

I scowl. “It’s not.”

Except…maybe it is.

Because I can’t seem to look away.

My stomach flutters.

Traitor.

“Good afternoon, my lord.” Anders shifts, angling his body subtly in front of mine. “It is an honor to see you again.”

The Shadow Prince takes in the protective move, his mouth curling with a sneer. “What are you doing, Anders?”

My brows lift.

Do they know each other?

“As Lady Helen requested,” Anders replies evenly, “I am aiding Elara with the healing arts.”

“She doesn’t need your help.”

“Are you sure about that?”

“Undoubtedly.”