Awakening Love Reborn to Be His Duchess (Elowen Hale) novel Chapter 544

Elowen looked at him. "And then?"

Cassian's lips curved slightly. "I pretended to help her escape. On the way, she trusted me and shared quite a bit. When we reached the exit, Bran was already waiting with men as instructed. We captured her again."

Elowen shook her head, her tone sincere. "That's ruthless."

Cassian seemed perfectly at ease with that. "A seasoned hunter knows how to handle another."

Elowen smiled faintly. "But she's seen you before. You and Alaric look nothing alike. If she recognizes you tonight..."

Cassian shook his head. "It was dark, chaotic. She didn't see clearly enough to remember."

Elowen tilted her head slightly. "And if she does recognize you?"

Cassian leaned closer, lowering his voice just enough. "Then I'll be relying on you, Your Grace."

Elowen laughed.

Before long, the carriage reached the palace gates.

Night had settled in, and the palace was illuminated by rows of iron sconces and braziers, firelight casting a steady golden glow across stone walls and high archways.

Cassian stepped down first, as he always did, and extended his hand.

Elowen placed her hand in his, letting him guide her down carefully.

His gaze briefly passed over her rounded stomach, and a thought came to him. "When the child is born, you'll still step down first."

Elowen looked at him. "And then?"

"I'll still help you down."

Elowen smiled. "The child will cry."

Cassian answered calmly. "Then he can wait."

She laughed again.

"Aunt."

The voice came from nearby, familiar.

"What's so amusing?"

Elowen turned.

Alaric stood beneath the torchlight, dressed in formal court attire, a gold circlet set in place. His expression was composed, but his gaze had already dropped to their joined hands.

Something dark flickered there.

Elowen's smile faded slightly.

Cassian spoke lazily, "Grown matters. Not for children."

The tone was deliberate.

Alaric's jaw tightened as he looked at him. "So you've come as well."

He paused, then continued, "The invitation was sent to her by me. I didn't expect her to bring unrelated company. If I recall correctly, you are still under sanction. Bloodline aside, that leaves you little more than a noble without standing. This kind of banquet doesn't seem appropriate for you."

The words were not polite.

The air around them seemed to still. A few passing officials slowed their steps, listening quietly.

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