"Ahem."
Ackster cleared his throat, which made Mara open her eyes. It seemed she had misread Ackster's intentions.
"Pardon me, My lord."
Mara pretended like nothing as she bowed her head slightly and avoided Mio's, Karandiel's, and Ackster's gazes.
"Don't worry about it. It's easy to make such a mistake. I also almost got caught up in the atmosphere."
"You did?"
"Ahem. What I was about to say regarding your request for a closer relationship, Mara, was that I'm not sure it's a good idea."
"May I ask why, My lord?"
Mara had braced herself, but Ackster's roundabout rejection still stung. And the full brunt of his words had yet to hit her. Still, she knew Ackster wouldn't kick her away, so she comforted herself with the fact that she would still be close to Ackster. However, she could already feel her jealousy rage when she looked at Karandiel.
"I'm worried about you."
