Page 21 of Destiny Redeemed
He bowed and took his leave, but not before I caught the calculating gleam in his eyes.
As he walked away, I caught Anderic watching me with an unreadable expression. “How interesting that you knew exactly who he meant.”
Well, damn.
“Well,” I said, looking at the direction he went, “isn’t it obvious? Who else has beautiful chestnut hair and delicate features beautiful enough to make everyone fall in love with her?”
“Indeed.” Anderic’s voice dropped low beside my ear. “Now, where were we before we were so rudely interrupted?”
I jumped at his closeness and put some distance between us.
I ignored his suggestive tone. “Even if I wanted to live in the palace, which I don’t, it would be impossible now that I’ve divorced Noah.”
“That’s easily remedied.” Anderic waved his hand dismissively. “I’ll speak with Mother about officially inviting you to stay.”
“Your Highness, that’s really not—”
“I insist.” His tone brooked no argument.
I sighed internally. There was no winning this one. I’d just have to speak with the Queen myself later and decline politely if she agreed.
“Well, now that’s settled.” Anderic’s voice dropped low as he stepped closer. “Shall we pick up where we left off?”
My eyes widened as memories of what I’d almost done flooded back. Heat crept up my neck as I planted both hands on his chest and pushed. It was like trying to move a marble statue.
“Speaking of interruptions,” I said quickly, “who exactly is this Lord Callum?”
Anderic sighed and finally stepped back, disappointment etched across his features. “If you want to play it that way, fine. We can discuss the kiss - and how you were waiting for me - another time.”
I sputtered, caught off guard by his casual mention of both incidents. But he continued before I could form a coherent response.
“Lord Callum is one of the Elentharian delegates. They’ll be leaving in a few days.”
Leaving? No, he’ll go into hiding until he gets what he wants - the secret of Aetherian steel.I bit my lip, debating whether to hint at my knowledge without arousing Anderic’s suspicion. But how much did Anderic already know?
“Doesn’t he seem rather… sophisticated for a mere delegate?” I cringed at my own awkward phrasing.
Anderic crossed his arms, fixing me with an unimpressed look. “If you’re trying to ask about his real identity, he’s Prince Callum of Elenthar. He’s traveling in disguise for security reasons.”
He knows then. Relief flooded through me - until Anderic’s eyes narrowed. “How did you know?”
“I didn’t know for certain,” I said quickly. “I just… keep up with news and gossip. Prince Callum is quite famous in Elenthar. And his behavior reminds me of a certain prince.” I held my breath, praying he wouldn’t press further.
Anderic’s brow furrowed. “I’m much better looking than Callum.”
I stared at him, dumbfounded. After everything I’d said, that’s what he focused on?
“I wasn’t talking about you, you insufferable peacock!”
He chuckled. “Thank you for the compliment.”
I ignored his comment and met his eyes. “Has there been any progress in Lord Magnus’s case?”
Yes, I’m fishing for information. He probably won’t tell me anyway.
“I could tell you,” Anderic’s voice dropped to a dangerous whisper, “but then I’d have to kill you.”
All the blood drained from my face. He wouldn’t actually—
