"What do you mean, never?" I pressed, the shock sharpening my voice. "Someone has to rule the kingdom, Draven. The Southern duchy, the palace—that is our home!"
Draven didn't even blink. He set the wooden spoon down with a dull thud. "It was home. The capital is compromised, the throne is a viper's nest, and I am no longer playing by their rules. My decision is final, Seraphina. We stay hidden until I say otherwise."
"But—"
"I said, it is final." His silver eyes flashed with a brief, warning chill that silenced the protest in my throat.
Without another word, he picked up the ladle, dished a steaming portion of the meat and carrots into a single wooden bowl, and sat down at the bench. He began to eat, completely ignoring the fact that he hadn't dished a single bite for me. My jaw tightened at his sudden return to this cold, detached behavior. Fine. Two could play at that game.
