Page 65 of The Alien's Cruel Starfrost Domain

Her eyes flash with that defiant fire she so often tries to hide. But she drops into an awkward curtsy. “Yes, Your Lordship.”

From the library doorway, Svalkat watches the scene with undisguised interest. “Such a shame about the vase. Wasn’t it a gift from your mother?”

Of course he would know that. I suspect he knows the history and value of every object in Starfrost Manor by now.

“I have others.” I turn to Uanna. “If you’ll excuse me, I need to speak with my servant.”

“Oh?” Her perfect lips curve up. “About her clumsiness? Or her deplorable manners?”

“About whatever I deem necessary.” I keep my tone mild, but ice crystals form in the air around us.

Uanna’s face goes carefully blank at my words, and she sweeps away. Svalkat lingers a moment longer before reluctantly returning to the library, though I notice he leaves the door open.

Lara has already retrieved a broom and dustpan from a nearby closet. She works efficiently, her movements precise despite her obvious anger. The worn fabric of her sweater pulls tight across hershoulders as she bends to sweep up the glass, and I catch myself staring at the curve of her spine.

“Leave it,” I tell her. “Follow me.”

She straightens, still holding the broom. “But?—”

“Now.”

For a moment, I think she’ll refuse. But then she sets the broom aside and falls into step behind me. I lead her through the servant’s corridors, away from prying eyes, until we reach a small sitting room I sometimes use for private meetings.

“Shut the door.”

She does, then stands with her back against it, watching me warily. Smart girl.

“What happened with Lady Uanna?”

“Nothing.” At my raised eyebrow, she amends, “She stepped in front of me as I was carrying the vase. I couldn’t stop in time.”

“And did she step in front of you deliberately?”

Lara’s silence is answer enough.

I rake a hand through my hair, probably ruining its careful styling. “You need to be more careful.”

“I am careful.” Her voice stays quiet, but there’s steel beneath it. “Maybe if your lady friend was less determined to make my life difficult?—”

“She’s not my—” I cut myself off. “That’s not the point. Uanna is dangerous.”

“Because she’s your lover?”

The question catches me off guard. “How did you?—”

“Everyone knows.” Her lips twist. “The servants talk. And she’s not exactly subtle about it.”

No, she’s not. And that’s part of the problem.

I move closer to Lara, close enough to catch the scent of woodsmoke in her hair. “Listen carefully. Uanna has Prince Jonyk’s ear. If she decides you’re a problem...”

I let the sentence hang. Lara shivers but lifts herchin. “I can handle her.”

“No, you can’t.” The words come out harsher than I intend. “You have no idea what she’s capable of.”

“And whose fault is that?” She meets my gaze directly. “You bought me, brought me here, and then told me nothing about your world except what I’ve managed to piece together myself.”

She’s right, damn her. I’ve kept her ignorant, believing it would protect both of us. But now that ignorance might get her killed.

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