Page 104 of Beast and Remedy
I don’t understand why I can never catch a break. Everyone knows I can’t be with another royal. Marian could, but I can’t.
I touch her knee and squeeze it gently. “I swear to Yeva.”
She regards me suspiciously, her jaw working for a response as the doors to the keep open, the prince striding through with a large sack.
Stefan passes his guards without a care in the world, sauntering toward my sister and me.
Beau strides up, but I don’t give him my attention, trying to remain pleasant toward the prince.
He takes in Marian, and I don’t miss her straightening in her saddle.
“Stefan.” She inclines her head, and he breaks out into a full, gleeful grin.
I wonder if her breath stops like mine did. They could conquer the world if they courted.
“Marian,” he breathes, his voice emphasizing her name as if it were a prayer as he extends the large pouch to me.
“Thank you, Stefan.” I take it quickly, leaving to stuff it with my other packs.
“It is Northtry’s pleasure, Princess,” he says as he kisses my sister’s knuckles.
Deities, he is such a flirt.
“Will you still write me during your travels? I spoke with my staff to ensure no letter goes unreceived should it have your name on it,” he says to my sister.
“If you’d still like me to,” Marian replies.
“I will always want you to.”
Even my own stomach somersaults for my twin. I bite my lip, hiding my amusement.
But the happiness I have for Marian is cut short by Leo’s longing gaze. I’m surprised he doesn’t react, doesn’t say anything.
He simplystares.
Leo catches me, and he runs his hand through his hair, diverting my attention. Marcel, too, looks warily, along with Christine and Jules, like they all know Leo pines after Marian.
Beau tentatively approaches, his voice a hushed whisper. “I should’ve known he was making a spectacle of us all.”
My lip quirks. “I’m surprised you reacted as you did.”
“What do you mean?”
I shrug as I finish tying off the satchel. “I thought you would have known being a monarch comes with creating a spectacle.”
He huffs a vigorous laugh. “I definitely should’ve known better. But I saw himoglingyou—”
I snort, crossing my arms and facing him. “And that gave you enough reason to draw your sword and get in his face?”
“Yes.”
My posture slackens, my soul warming at the notion. “Beau—”
“I know I overreacted. I know we need the roseroot, and I am sorry I nearly screwed it up for Marian and you. And then you had to go smooth things over and then my mind started racing—”
I touch his arm, halting him from spiraling. “Hey.”
He takes a long inhale, shuddering before he rubs his jaw. The light behind his eyes dims, turning regretful as he sighs. “I’m sorry.”
