Atlas' POV
"Her Grace has finally settled in," Ruby spoke quietly, snapping me from my thoughts. I nodded curtly, acknowledging her words. She lingered, her expression neutral, but I could see the flicker of hesitation in her eyes. Curiosity was clawing at her, but she was too well-trained to press.
"Is there anything else?" My tone came out sharper than intended as I stood, straightening my coat.
"Well… Sir… " she faltered, her steps brisk as she followed me out of the office. "Is it true? Is the young miss really breaking off her engagement with the king?"
I halted mid-step, slowly turning to face her. Ruby froze, wide-eyed and stiff under my gaze. I forced a polite smile to mask my irritation. "Yes. She is," I said evenly. "And she is to be wedded to me instead."
Her eyes widened, her lips parting slightly as if she'd heard the news for the first time again. "So, it's true," she murmured under her breath.
