Page 118 of Captive of Secrets and Storms

I brace myself for the image of Lev to flash behind my eyes, but I suck in a small breath when it’s Rian’s silver-flecked gaze staring back at me.

“No, Lady Helen.” I shove the Shadow Prince’s likeness from my mind. “I am not promised.”

Anders winces.

Helen claps again. “Wonderful. I cannot wait to share the news with Leto. I will be certain your maid knows to fit you for a gown befitting the companion of one of the contestants.”

The cunning edge to her smile makes the hair on the back of my neck stand up.

At her expectant look, I dip my chin. “Thank you, Lady Helen.”

Her unsettling grin grows.

“We should be getting back.” Augustus takes his wife’s arm and loops it through his. “Before our son notices our absence.”

She rolls her eyes. “Please, he is so besotted with Daphne that he’s very likely unaware we’re not at his side.”

The sour note in her tone gives me an idea what kind of mother-in-law Lady Helen will be.

I send up a silent prayer to Olyra for resilience and patience on Daphne’s behalf.

Augustus turns to Anders. “I will see you this evening.”

The blond Fae lowers into a half bow. “Until then.”

I stare at the pair’s retreating figures with a furrowed brow.

Augustus seems genuine. But Helen… I’m not so sure. My gut says I need to be on my guard around her, and my gut is rarely wrong.

Except when it comes to yearning for a bloodthirsty Fae prince.

I scowl. Oh, shut up.

“Elara?”

My gaze snaps to Anders.

Lines crease the edges of his brilliant-blue eyes. “Is everything all right?”

“Of course.” My smile is wobbly at best. “Why do you ask?”

He cocks his head to the side, assessing. “You seem troubled.”

Is this how patients feel when I observe them? Like an ant under a magnifying glass?

I lock my cheek muscles, holding my smile in place. “I’m fine. Just tired. I stayed up late into the night reading.”

“Ah.” His skeptical expression fades. “I understand. I’ve fallen victim to late-night studies myself a time or two.”

I bob my head. “Actually, it’s great that you’re here. I was wondering… Are there any books from Astloria in the library?”

“There are. Is there any subject in particular you’re looking for?”

“Anything about Verdanthian history. Or even the Fae.” I choke out the words. “I-I want to learn as much as I can…after spending my entire life in the dark.”

“Of course.” His features soften. “This way.”

Our footsteps are quiet on the plush carpet as he leads me toward the back of the library. We pass occupied tables.