I was feeling less and less anxious the farther I got from the banquet, but I didn’t know how I would manage to stay bright and charming for two more days.

“It will be different tomorrow,” Etan said, as if reading my mind. “Everyone’s attention will be focused on the tournament.”

“Perhaps no one will care, then, if I don’t attend.”

He laughed. “I wouldn’t go that far, but you should be able to stay out of trouble for a day. . . . You can stay out of trouble for a day, can’t you?”

“I will if you will,” I replied groggily.

“Oh, well, it’s all out the window, then.”

I couldn’t bring myself to appreciate his newfound wit at the moment. I just needed to get to my bed.

“That was very brave,” Etan finally admitted. “Suggesting he give up the land. It would not be a popular idea, but it would save so many lives if he actually did it. You should be proud of that, Hollis.”

“If I survive the trip, I’ll try to remember that.” I swallowed. “I’m sorry. I’m sure you lost people you knew today.”

“I’ll have no way of knowing for a few days. Even if I didn’t know them, it’s still hard to stomach.” He looked around the hallway, continuing to support me as we walked. “I know you think I hate everyone, but I don’t. My heart bleeds Isolten blue, and the people here only represent the tiniest fraction of the country. There are more out there, barely getting by, living in fear of an angry king, going to protect the border for money to support their families only to die in the process. I can’t forgive Jameson for killing our people, and I can’t forgive Quinten for killing his own. It’s just . . . they don’t deserve that.”

We moved in silence for a while.

“It makes sense why you would hate me.”

He huffed. “I don’t hate you. I’m just not particularly fond of you.”

“But you did hate me. You said so.”

“So did you,” he reminded me.

“Yes. I think that Hollis—the one back in the manor, who was tired and sad and trying to do the right thing—I think she meant it. But despite how true it felt then, I probably could not say it again now.”

“Because I’m so charming?” he joked.

I shook my head, regretting the movement almost instantly. “Because you came after me when I know you didn’t want to. And you’ve kept your word ever since.”

We were just at the hallway that led to our apartments when he paused. “And you’ve kept yours. Also, for some forsaken reason, you make me laugh when little else does.”

I looked ahead, thankful to be close to sanctuary. “You only laugh because you like making jokes at my expense.”

“True. Very true,” he said, escorting me into the rooms. “Still, it’s effective.”

Acting the gentleman his title implored him to be, he opened the door for me, allowing me a moment to make sure I was steady on my feet before leaving.