[Haldor's POV—Outside Lavinia's Chamber—Red Wall Castle]
"Sir Haldor…" her voice—firm, composed—cut through the tension like a blade. "Wait for me outside."
She said it so simply.
So gently. I bowed, because that is what I always do. That is what my duty is. "Yes, Your Highness."
But I didn't want to leave.
I wanted to stay. I wanted to stand between her and that man. I wanted to tell her— Grand Duke Osric feels like a threat now. A danger. A storm waiting to crack open.
Not to the Empire.
To her.
To the quiet, steady strength she'd spent years building.
I stepped away. Not far. Just outside the door. Just enough that I could still hear her if she raised her voice. Just enough that—if she called for help—I'd be the first sword drawn.
The corridor was empty. Quiet. Still.
Until I heard his voice.
"He… touched you." The Grand Duke's tone cracked like thunder—angry, frustrated, and laced with something darker. Possession. Jealousy. Fear.
