Rivera watched her father's concerned face, the faint crease between his brows deepening as he continued to stare at her.
She knew that expression well-too well. It was the look he wore whenever something threatened the people he cared for, the look he carried on days when the weight of his name and power pressed heavily on him.
And right now, she knew without question that he wasn't worried about himself. No-his concern was centered entirely on her.
She knew her father was worried about what others would say of her: the bitter whispers, the mockery, and the cruel tongues that would no doubt wag the moment news of her summon spread throughout kingdom and beyond.
But Rivera only drew in a breath, and steeled her heart.
