As Alora and Marcus stepped toward the balcony, Arihan's eyes narrowed at them and interpreted they were going to the corner of the ballroom.
He moved swiftly through the crowd, intercepting them. "Your Highness," he said, his voice firm but respectful, "it's against security protocol for you to wander into less-crowded areas without supervision." He assumed he was following the protocols without realizing his emotions were at play.
Alora wanted to avoid him and he followed her right after. She struggled to be in composure and raised an eyebrow, her tone light but slightly challenging. "And you assume I'm unsafe in Lord Marcus's company?"
Arihan's jaw tightened further, his gaze flickering to Marcus briefly before returning to her. "It's not about the company, Your Highness. It's about ensuring your safety at all times."