Chapter 28

Silence.

“Do you have a suspect among them? Someone in line with your sister?”

“No. And we haven’t proven that it’s my sister.”

But his face said that it wasn’t out of the question, not when his sister was the one who could benefit the most from his disappearance. Her chest ached. Her family had always been her most dependable anchor, the ones who would never betray her despite their differences. That he might not have that with his sister…

Don’t get emotional.

“Where have you been, anyway?” she asked casually.

“I just had a little errand.”

“Your sister was looking for you. I don’t think she was pleased that you left before she could talk to you.”

“Talking with my sister involves hours of her discussing ways to improve our court, complaining about our court, and nagging me about my…not-so-tame habits.” Light danced in his magenta eyes, then sobered. “Why did you leave the festivities?”

“I wanted to explore.”

“I see. Here.”

She looked down at his extended hand, expecting him to either