Inside the guest reception room, Cecilia sat beside Arkai, snuggled under his arm. They sat like they owned the palace itself, which made them look like they'd been poured into their seats and had no intention of leaving anytime soon.
Meanwhile, Angela sat in front of her, pouring tea, looking like someone who definitely had not, just hours ago, been caught in a compromising position by her brother.
The tea leaves swirled in the pot, and Angela's hands were immaculately steady.
Damon stood facing the window, his back to the room, his hands clasped behind him in that imperious way emperors had. His silhouette was imposing against the pale winter light, all sharp angles.
Ruby did expect the Emperor. He was, after all, the one who had summoned her. But the criminal princess? The Dragon's Physician? The Black Wolf King?
