“Is he well now?” I asked evenly after a brief nod. “Why didn’t you stay longer? It must have been difficult for Selara to manage alone.”
He paused while unfastening his coat, a flash of irritation crossing his features. “Are you mocking me again?” he said, letting out a long, heavy breath. Whether the exhaustion was genuine or a performance, I could not tell. “I did not sleep all night. I am drained.”
“Then rest,” I replied calmly. “I am leaving for the physician’s quarters.”
I turned to gather my satchel.
“Liora…” He reached for my wrist.
“What is it?”
“We will mark our anniversary another time,” he murmured. “I promise.”
A faint smile touched my lips, though no warmth lived behind it. “I am not angered.”
He studied me for a moment before drawing me into his arms. The embrace felt hollow, like a vow offered out of obligation rather than choice. He rested his chin lightly against my hair. “There’s a gathering with the company this coming weekend,” he said. “Join me.”