"And what did you say?" Vyan asked, his voice deceptively casual as he reached for his tea, though his eyes never left her, curiosity sparking beneath his calm demeanor.
"Yes, of course," Iyana replied, her tone carrying a hint of resignation. "I have already caused him enough trouble. This is the least I can do to make it right."
Vyan's lips twitched into a sarcastic smile as he raised his cup to his lips. "Right, you are the one in wrong when this entire mess could have been avoided if Prince Easton just had the guts to propose to you himself, instead of involving the emperor," he murmured, almost to himself, before taking a slow sip.
"Anyway," she interrupted, rolling her eyes playfully as she leaned back against the couch, "You know what the best part is? If I find Princess Maria, I will be promoted to Commander without having to duel Commander Pembrooke."
