Page 22 of A Broken Throne of Bronze

“No,” Myrdin counters, the thrill of the debate rising to his face. “I’m saying that because it’s true. The use of spices in the Copper Court is truly exceptional.”

Asheros just grins, amused.

Myrdin holds up his hands. “I’ve yet to be proven wrong.”

I laugh. “I’ll consider that when it’s time to decide where we’ll honeymoon.” Though, I know that time will never come. I won’t be marrying Viridian, and I certainly won’t be honeymooning with him.

“The Crown Prince is a lucky male,” Asheros says, looking me up and down. “You are a rare beauty.”

“She is.”

Myrdin and Asheros instantly rise to their feet. Their faces pale.

“Your Highness.” Asheros bows, voice tight, as if he knows he’s been caught doing something he shouldn’t. “My apologies for being so forward.”

“I’ll accept your apologies.” Viridian levels his tone, as if to keep himself in line. His cool stare lingers on Asheros before turning to me.

“I’ve been looking for you,” he says, eyes locked with mine.

“Have you now?” I taunt.

“You weren’t in your room.”

“Am I not allowed to leave?” I uncross my arms and put my hands on my hips.

“I didn’t say that,” Viridian growls, amber eyes stormy.

“You certainly implied it,” I snap.

“I have no recollection of doing such a thing.”

I lean back, face hot with irritation. “I seem to recall it quite differently.”

Viridian presses his mouth into a fine line and takes a deep breath. “Then perhaps I should choose my words more carefully next time.”

“Perhaps you should.”

He looks away from me, clenching his jaw.

“Will you join me for dinner this evening?”

I could say no and deny him in front of two other males. I’m sure that would absolutely infuriate him. Or wound his pride. But as much as I don’t want to spend any more time with him, it would be beneficial to dine with good silverware. If I want to make my escape, I’ll need some kind of easily concealed weapon.

So, I raise my chin and even out my expression.

“Yes,” I tell him. I let toxic sweetness flow freely from my voice. “I’ll be so lovely as to grace you with my presence this evening.”

Viridian’s jaw ticks, and for a moment, I think he’ll say something rude back to me. But to my surprise, he doesn’t. He reins in his temper.

“Very well,” he grinds out. “I will see you tonight.”

Myrdin and Asheros exchange an awkward glance.

Frustration still clear on his face, Viridian turns to them stiffly, as if suddenly remembering that they’re still here. “My Lords.”

Before I can say anything in return, he spins around on his heels and storms from the library.

Throwing up my hands, I let out a groan and do the same. Though I make sure to keep him out of my sight.

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