Page 16 of Frozen Hearts and Death Magic

“Except they didn’t.”

“Indeed.” Kasim sighed. “And why we’ll keep it quiet for now.”

“What about the twins? And the guards? They might tell others.”

“I’ll take care of the guards. As for the Umbraar kids, I don’t see them talking to anyone. They would want to hide the boy’s magic.”

That didn’t make sense. “You think they’re ashamed of it?”

“I think he’s too powerful.”

“And yet somehow he’s a horrible match.”

“Leah.” Kasim had a warning in his voice. “It has nothing to do with his magic or even his character. His behavior today was irreproachable. It’s his family. Please don’t think about him as a potential suitor. I know he’s dashing, but looks don’t matter for a marriage.”

“I wasn’t thinking about him like that, I was just wondering why he’s so horrible.”

“He’s not horrible, Leah. He’s just not someone you should ever consider marrying. Can I trust you on that?”

She felt as if she were swallowing something bitter, but she didn’t want to disappoint him. “Of course.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Plus, if your criteria for enjoying someone’s company is that they’ve read Rudolf the Mighty, I’m pretty sure there are plenty of candidates.”

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