Page 94 of Frozen Hearts and Death Magic

19

Asleep

Leah was alone in her very bright pink room—again. They didn’t even have a servant attending her, perhaps so that she wouldn’t complain or that she wouldn’t have anyone to talk to.

She wanted to forget the scene from this afternoon, wanted to forget the shame and humiliation of standing undressed in front of two of the princes, but Cassius look still felt like a sticky slime covering her body, even after a bath. The worst part had been crying. Like a silly ten-year-old, Leah had wept on her bed for a long time.

Crying was not going to help; she had to plan, had to think. She had to find a way to contact the dead—and Fel. True, he had rejected her, and yet, the world felt strange without him, as if a bright star had been plucked out of the firmament. Two stars. His sister had been so beautiful, smart, full of life and joy.

Right then, her door opened, bringing Venard, who was smiling, carrying a book under his arms.

“How was the dress fitting?”

She stared at him. She’d considered telling him what had happened, but what difference would it make? It would just extend her humiliation further than she wished.

Leah shrugged. “Fine.”

“I brought something I think you’ll like.” He extended his hand, showing her a book. The Wondrous Rufus. “That is your favorite, isn’t it?”

No. Leah enjoyed The Mighty Rudolf. That said, perhaps this imitation would be entertaining, and it would be better than being alone with nothing to do. “Thanks.”

He looked at her and sighed. “I know not everything has been perfect. But I want you to know that I want this to work.” He pointed at the two of them.

Right. His plan had been to have a lover—or more. But Leah didn’t want to argue. She just nodded. “Good.”

He took her hands, and she hated the feel of his skin against hers. “Soon we’ll celebrate our wedding for Ironhold to see. But it’s also our chance to try, our chance to make it real, Leah.”

“Sure.” She stepped back and ran her fingers through her hair, relieved to break contact with him.

He looked at her up and down. “My grandmother doesn’t think you’re pregnant. I never thought you were, Leah.” He smiled. “It’s good news for us.”

“I guess.”

She looked away, hoping he’d get the clue and leave soon. Instead, he touched her face and turned her head so that she’d look back at him. The gesture was gentle, though.

“Leah. Listen to me. We’re going back to Frostlake. You know that, right?”

“When?”

He took a moment, then said, “If everything goes well, the day after the wedding.”

That soon? In three days? Her heart got lighter and a smile came to her face.

He nodded. “I knew you would like to hear this news, but keep it a secret. It’s supposed to be a surprise. I’m looking forward to it as much as you are. Then it will be just us, and you’ll be near your family. It will be fine. My grandmother is happy to see your improvement.”

She wanted to punch him. Improvement? As if she’d been the one causing problems.

He continued, “You’re becoming part of the family now.”

She sighed. “I’m being kept in this room like a prisoner, Venard. I’m not even getting fed. They’re bringing me just salad and fruit.”

“But that’s for your own good. You don’t want to repeat what you did at the wedding in Frostlake, do you?”

“I was nervous.”

“Well, eating light will make sure you don’t puke.”

“Sure. I could faint.”

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