He nodded. “Lady Alina’s family owns an estate. Once we’re wed, it will be our home.”
“You’re leaving Bremloc?” I lowered my fork.
“Well, I’ll still visit, of course.” The edges of his lips trembled as he smiled. “But, yes. Cedric will rule here, while I oversee Voltas.”
“Why doesn’t your brother have to get married? He’s next in line for the throne. From what I’ve heard, Voltas is an important ally. One that could turn the tide in a possible war with Haran. Shouldn’t Lady Alina marry him instead?”
“A baron’s daughter isn’t a suitable bride for a Crown Prince. Not that I’d wish such a fate on Lady Alina anyway.” Sawyer’s gaze darted to the nearby attendants, as though nervous of being overhead. He quickly composed himself and stirred more sugar into his tea, lightly clinking the spoon against the cup. “Once king, Cedric will eventually wed a princess or two. Strengthen ties with other kingdoms through marriage.”
Poor girls.
“Also, please allow me to extend my sincerest apologies for how you were treated in my father’s study the night of the feast.” Sawyer frowned. “Cedric’s views are sorely outdated.”
“Don’t worry about it,” I said. “He can call me a dirty little pebble and insult my pastries all he wants. It doesn’t change howIfeel about myself.”
The old Evan might’ve let it get to him, but the man I’d become knew his worth. And nothing an arrogant douchebag said would change that.
“Never lose that confidence, Evan. A person’s worth does not come from titles or bloodlines.” When Sawyer smiled, it came easier. “Back to the topic of marriage. Should I expect news of your own engagement soon?”
I nearly spat my tea. “Huh?”
“Wagers have been placed on which of your men will propose first. I overheard the guards speaking of it. The maids too. Captain Maddox is currently in the lead, though Master Briar isn’t far behind. Some have even bet on your redhead.”
A nervous laugh bubbled from me. “I, uh… have no idea if marriage is in the cards for me.”
But if it was, I’d want to marry all of my men. Not just one. I couldn’t imagine it any other way.
Sawyer smiled. “Well, if that day ever comes, I do hope you’ll invite me to the wedding.”
“Of course.” Emotion stirred in my chest.
As we sipped tea and continued eating, I let myself imagine a future where I married all of my men. A future where we were happy and no longer stressed about a possible war. With Haran. With Lord Onyx.
“Prince Sawyer?” Kuya groaned and placed a hand on his belly. Frosting was smeared on his cheek, and crumbs dusted his shirt. “Kuya doesn’t feel well.”
“You darling kitten. Come here.” Sawyer rose from his chair and helped Kuya stand. “I’ll take you to Master Briar.” Then to me, he said, “Will you excuse me for a moment? I won’t be gone long.”
I nodded, trying not to laugh. “I’ll be right here. But will you do me a favor?”
“Anything.”
“Make sure Briar eats something. I’m sure he skipped lunch.”
“Will do.” Sawyer smiled before leading Kuya from the gazebo.
The recent days of warmer weather had made everything come alive. More wildlife stirred in the woods behind the castle wall, and birds took turns washing in the water basin, making cute little chirps.
But the beautiful weather couldn’t hold back my worries for long. I remembered the abandoned ship and the mage—one part of an ancient order notorious for their use of dark magic. If Briar was right, Nocturne had been hired to track down my dad.
Restless, I stood up and exited the gazebo, stepping into the garden. The sun warmed the top of my head, and a warm breeze ruffled my hair.
A light touch drew my attention to Ban. He lowered his hand from my wrist before nodding toward a stone bench. It was surrounded by colorful flowers with a backdrop of rose bushes.
“You want me to sit?”
He nodded.
Watching me pace had probably made him nervous. Or annoyed him. One or the other.
