Aria had almost reached the door when courage reckless and uninvited rose in her chest.
"My king," she said softly.
Lucien paused and stared at her.
She swallowed. "How did you know something was wrong in the palace?" Her fingers tightened in her sleeves. "And how did you know I… saw something?"
Silence followed.
Then Lucien turned slowly, his expression unreadable.
"You are either very brave," he said calmly, "or very foolish."
Aria lowered her gaze immediately. "I meant no disrespect."
"No," Lucien replied. "You meant curiosity."
He studied her for a moment longer, then gestured toward the far side of the chamber. "Come."
Her heart skipped, but she obeyed.
Lucien crossed to a tall arched window veiled by dark velvet curtains. With a flick of his fingers, the fabric drew back.
Outside, the sky was pale with approaching dawn.
He spoke without looking at her.
"When I am away," Lucien said, "my palace does not sleep."
He extended his hand.
At first, Aria saw nothing.
