Vexaria spent the next few days trying to convince herself that the kiss meant nothing. That it was a lapse in judgment, a fleeting moment of weakness. But every time she closed her eyes, she could still feel him—his touch, his heat, the way he had looked at her like she was something worth breaking for.
It infuriated her.
She had fought too hard, built herself too strong, to be undone by a man like Xypheron.
And yet, the moment she saw him again, standing at the far end of the grand hall, she knew she was lying to herself.
He hadn't sought her out since that night, which should have been a relief. Instead, it left her restless. Irritated.
Why should I care if he's avoiding me? she thought bitterly. It's what I wanted.
But when his gaze finally met hers across the room, something in her stomach tightened. He didn't smirk, didn't taunt her like he usually did. He simply watched her, unreadable and silent.
And that was somehow worse.
Vexaria forced herself to look away, to pretend he was just another noble in the court. But she felt him. Every step he took, every shift in his presence.
Then suddenly, he was beside her.
"I expected more of a fight from you," Xypheron murmured, his voice too low for anyone else to hear.
Vexaria turned her head, meeting his gaze with a glare. "I'm done playing games."
His lips