Gavriel had just finished some of his pending work when he decided to return to his bedchamber to check on Althea. Since it was already dinner, he thought it best to share the meal with her. Besides, he wanted to speak with her more about her abilities and see if she would reveal every detail.

Rising from his chancery, he told a servant, “Have dinner prepared for me and Althea, and bring it to my bedchamber.”

As he walked down the corridor, Lady Ava suddenly appeared before him. She bowed ...