“It pushed me to rise. To become someone worthy.” He folded his hands. “And I know why you turned away. The Axton matter isn’t exactly hidden.”
My mouth dried. Heat crept up my neck. He knew. The power plays, the threats, all of it.
“You…” I bit my lips hard. “You know everything?”
“Isolde, I make it my business to know the landscape of our world.” His eyes held mine. “Including why you’re considering bonding again.”
I pushed my chair back, hands trembling. “If you know all that, then I won’t waste your time. I don’t want you thinking I’m using—”
A low, full laugh cut me off. Marcellus shook his head.
“What makes you laugh?”
“You.” He wiped a tear. “I’m navigating ten steps beforehand, and you’re worried about how I feel?”
“What are you talking about?” I gripped the chair.
He gestured calmly. “Sit. Let’s speak properly.”
I lowered myself back into the seat. A server appeared with a bottle of lunar wine, but Marcellus waved him away.
“I’ll accept the union,” he said, voice dropping to a private growl meant only for me. “An alliance between our families strengthens every territory. And I give you my oath—I will protect the Rustpire line with everything I possess.”