Dawn came slowly, reluctantly, as if the sun itself hesitated to witness what the day would bring. I watched it from my window, the grey light seeping across the gardens like water through cracks in a dam. I had not slept deeply—the realization had seen to that—but I had slept, and the sleep had brought clarity.
I knew what I wanted. Now I had to act.
Sir Edric brought my breakfast with his usual silent efficiency. He set the tray on my escritoire and turned to leave, but I stopped him with a word.
"I need to see him. The Duke. Today. As soon as possible."
Sir Edric's expression did not change, but his eyes sharpened with a new awareness. He had been Kaelen's man for long enough to recognize a decision when he heard one.
"I will convey the message, my lady." He paused at the door. "Are you certain?"
I met his gaze steadily. "I have never been more certain of anything in my life."
