Page 10 of Unbetrothed

People parted the way. I should have stayed inside the hall, but I needed time with him. I strode into the corridor and onto the terrace, not stopping until I reached the railing overlooking the garden. “Thank you, Lux.”

Lux’s smile transformed his face into someone irresistible, even though his big nose didn’t pair well with his thin lips. He turned to sit on the low stone railing. Lantern light glistened off his sun-bleached hair. His eyes missed no detail as he caressed me with his gaze. “It’s my pleasure, Bea. I hope this evening has fulfilled everything you’ve dreamed of.”

My heart fluttered. Long ago, I overheard his father, King Rodulfo of Pedroz, say to Lux that he would not have the future Queen of Pedroz be a useless, giftless girl like Princess Beatriz. The memory soured in my stomach.

It occurred to me that I needed to tell him about my oath. Maybe he could help me figure out how I could make my escape. He’d always had a way of making complicated plans seem simple. He was unconventional and shrewd. I should tell him everything, including my feelings.He’s a betrothed man, Beatriz.

I should still say something. What did I have to lose? I squared up to Lux, gathering my courage, and I opened my mouth.

But Lux hissed, “One of your brother’s ghouls found us.”

CHAPTER 5

SO MUCH FOR Aprivate conversation.

Marcoin, one of Cosme’s closest advisors, approached Lux and me out on the terrace. “Princess.” Marcoin bowed so low his beard almost touched the stone floor.

“Is something the matter, Don Marcoin?” I asked.

“No, dear Princess. Your brother requests an audience with you.”

My brother must have seen us exit. I flashed Lux an apologetic smile. Lux nodded in understanding, cheeks dimpling. I reached for his hand but stopped short. Marcoin would tell Papá about my impropriety, yet again.

“Prince Lux,” I released every bit of my sentiment into my tone, “will you honor me with your presence? Tomorrow, before you return to Pedroz.” I would declare my love before fulfilling my oath. It was my last chance.

“As you wish, Princess.” He tipped his head.

I whipped my crimson train behind me and followed Marcoin into the palace, peeking through the windows at Lux. His gaze settled on the palace walls, a brooding expression furrowing on his brow. What ran through his head? At least he was not running to Her Haughtiness, Princess Alexa. Even thinking her name set my blood churning.

We crossed the threshold into the hall. Dancers clapped in rhythm and twirled their partners. Courtiers in bright velvets and silks from every province prattled in tight circles. Marcoin greeted and maneuvered his way past the dancers while I teetered behind him. Pain shot through my pinched feet, and I held my breath, giving curt nods to various suitors. All the formalities tired me to the bone.Play your role tonight. When we reached the opposite side of the room, Marcoin bowed to my brother.

Cosme brushed his lips against my cheek in greeting and stepped back, wearing his version of an engaging smile. “Dear sister, I’d like you to meet my friend, Sir Lucas.”

Sir Lucas, a taller gentleman, drew in a long breath and bowed. Sandy hair flopped over his forehead. I had danced with him earlier but chose not to converse. He looked like every other suitor with a grin and a styled mustache.

“Princess, it’s so good to see you again,” Sir Lucas said.

“The pleasure is all mine.” I stretched a practiced smile from cheek to cheek and addressed my brother. “What urgent matter do you wish to discuss?”

“Nothing of a serious nature.” Cosme sipped a ruby liquid and waved a hand in the air, levitating another flute from a server’s platter into my hands.

There he went again, exhibiting his gift. I sniffed the liquid and recoiled—the pungent stench of spirits repulsed me. Must he look so smug after interrupting my time with Lux? Cosme met my fury with a playful raise of his eyebrow and darted a meaningful glance at his friend. I squeezed my glass, knowing I needed to bide my time and be amiable, as Mamá liked to say.

So I turned to Sir Lucas, who downed a fizzy, orange drink. “How do you know my brother?”

“Prince Cosme and I spar. He has quite the jab. But don’t worry, Princess, I make him work hard for a win.”

I wasn’t worried. Lucas fidgeted his hands and blinked. A nervous tic, perhaps?Be kind, Beatriz. This man has nothing to do with Cosme’s scheming.

I said the first thing that came to mind. “What gifting do you possess?”

“I cast wards.”

“Like warding spells to keep the Himzos out of Giddel?”

My brother cut in. “Yes, you shouldsee him cast one some time. It’s quite the spectacle.”

Sir Lucas gave an embarrassed smile. “It’s nothing special, Princess. Mostly, I replace wards that have gone missing.”

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