Henrick cleared his throat. “First, just announce Prince Colbert, my wife, and me. Let’s wait another fifteen or so minutes after that to introduce the newly engaged couple.”

After a brief nod, the servant left.

Nara stood before Dexter, taking his hand in hers. “You and Reid need to start spending time together,” she said. “You’re too awkward around one another. No one will believe you’re in love.”

“Mother,” he murmured.

“You’re not making an effort to be friends.”

Dexter glanced at Reid, not even bothering to deny it.

“The people in that room must believe in this union. So please, for the sake of Axian, at least pretend to care about her.”

Reid abruptly stood, about to inform them how humiliating it was to be spoken about like she wasn’t there.

“I was Reid once,” Nara continued. “I know how it feels to be in an arranged marriage with someone who doesn’t want any part of it. Don’t do that to her—it’s not fair.” She squeezed her son’s hand, let go, and left the room, Henrick and Colbert right behind her.

Dexter didn’t move from his position against the wall. Reid had no idea what to say or do, so she started pacing. She hated feeling like a burden. Like she was unwanted. He didn’t even like her. It grated on her nerves, making her want to scream.

“I’m sorry,” Dexter said, his voice barely audible. “It was not my intention to be rude.”

At that, she stopped and glared at him. “Are you sure about that? Since the moment I arrived in Axian, you have been anything but welcoming.”

“Because the king sent you to spy.” He shrugged.

Yes, well, there was that. Tired of being nervous, afraid, and curious about this man, she resumed pacing. “Didn’t you say you wanted to make our marriage work?”

“I said I wanted our union to work.”

Was there a difference? She cocked her head. Had he meant he wanted to be married to her for the betterment of Axian, but he didn’t want to care about her? “What are you afraid of?”

He pushed off the wall, ignoring the question. “I’m sure it has been long enough.”

Reid followed him down a short hallway. He stopped before a door and knocked, shifting his weight from foot to foot. She couldn’t tell if it irritated him to wait or if it had to do with being in such a confined space with her. The door swung open, and their names were announced. People clapped and cheered as Reid and Dexter entered the great hall. Side by side, but not touching.