Cassien did not say anything as they arrived back at the main residence.

The car slowed to a stop. Guards stepped forward at once, opening the doors. Ivy did not wait for him. She stepped out on her own, her face set, her body tight like she was already bracing for a fight that had not started yet.

Cassien followed her.

“I’ll take an excuse,” he said calmly, keeping his voice low so no one else would hear. “I have council matters to handle this morning.”

Ivy stopped and turned to look ...