Aleksander spits blood onto the floor and scowls at me.
My chest heaves as I flex my stinging hand. “No one speaks about Annora that way.”
Aleksander dabs at his split lip. “She has made you as weak as she is.”
I start for him again, but Jude holds me back.
“Get out,” I snarl at Aleksander.
He inclines his head mockingly before turning on his heel and stalking from the room.
I wrench myself from Jude’s grasp and pace to the window. What in blazes has come over me, brawling like some reckless youth?
Anger still thrums through me as I brace my hands against the window frame and take a deep breath, trying to calm the whirlwind raging inside me.
Aleksander’s words keep replaying in my mind, mocking Annora, mocking my affection for her.
How dare he talk about her like that?
Jude moves to stand beside me. “You know Aleksander. He is always trying to get a rise out of you. I wouldn’t put too much stock in his barbs.”
“He went too far this time.”
Jude nods. “I know, but he’s not entirely wrong to have concerns. Marrying Annora and bringing her here, it’s bound to raise some eyebrows.” He pauses. “Still, for what it’s worth, I find her to be quite charming. I can see why you’re drawn to her.”
“I had no choice but to bring her here,” I say honestly. “You know that.”
“Yes, yes, I know, Jasce. You had no choice but to marry Annora and take her to your bed. No choice at all.” He grins mischievously.
I run a hand over my face and sigh. “Enough, Jude. I’m not in the mood for your jests.”
He nudges me with his elbow. “I’m only having a bit of fun. It’s good to see you smiling more these days.” He shifts to lean his shoulder against the wall. “Annora makes you happy. Which is a good thing, despite what Aleksander thinks.”
He’s right. I have smiled a lot more since I reunited with Annora.
Everything in me wants to go and search for her, to spend time with her, but I must attend a meeting with my council, the Scions of Ember, first.
I turn toward the door and glance over my shoulder at Jude. “I would like for you to attend the council meeting today.”
“Gladly. I’ll share my expertise on fishing.” His eyes dance with mirth before he turns and steps into the corridor.
I shake my head at him and follow him to the War Room, where every member of my council is already gathered.
ChapterThirty-Two
JASCE
My advisors straightenin their seats, conversation dying as all eyes turn to me. I stride to the head of the table and sit.
Jude takes a seat next to Aleksander, and it takes every ounce of discipline for me to not allow his presence to flame my temper again.
I turn to Ivor, my chief counselor. “What news do you have for me?”
A grim look settles on his face. “My Lord, there are concerns among the council.”
“What concerns?”
“That you have married a woman from House of Silver.” His voice hardens, like iron cooling in the forge. “The people will not accept her.”
