"You'll be working with me today," Chalea said. "Valina has some errands I need her to run."

Valina nodded dutifully, and Tavin looked over at her. There was an odd look in his eyes, caught somewhere between sadness and confusion. Something was clearly wrong, but she couldn't tell what it was. She would have to dedicate some of her free time today to finding out.

"Fine," Tavin said. His voice was flat, not carrying any of the spark that he had when they had met earlier this ...