*Ainslee*
The king’s announcement knocks the air out of me. I’m still trying to process exactly what he’s telling me when I turn to look at Rafe. His expression isn’t as revealing as normal. I can’t tell if he was aware of this or if it is news to him as well.
If I had to wager, I would say he knows, and he has known for some time. Perhaps since I shouted at him in the street. That would explain why he was kind to me. He must think he can get something out of me.
I turn back to the king, and with the biggest smile I can muster plastered on my face, I say, “I appreciate your hospitality, Your Highness.” Then, I pick my fork up again, take the knife next to my plate, and begin to cut my meat. As I do so, it’s a struggle not to saw through it the way I want to, like an animal. Like this is
