"That piqued my interest, Cassie," I say, glancing between Kessler and Zach.

Zach has tight lips, looking at Kessler as if he's ready to reveal the information. There's a look of hurt in his eyes, and I feel a pang of worry.

"You know what? I'm sorry for asking," I apologize, sensing the tension in the room.

Kessler's expression softens, and he exchanges a glance with Zach before turning his attention back to me. "Cassie was... she was my first mate."

A wave of sympathy washes over me. "I'm so ...