When I reach a pastel-pink tree with white leaves hanging like feathers, I lift my fingers like I’m not sure it’s even real.

“We don’t have a name for that one, but it’s my favorite as well.” His voice dances across the room.

I spin around and find Prince Caelan standing near a large stone fountain, hands folded behind him, hair as white as snow. His furs are gone, but the crown of silver branches sits firmly on his head, and he wears his colors proudly.

My heart thrums in alarm. He isn’t supposed to be here.

His eyes gleam even in the distance, and I nearly stumble into a curtsy.

“Apologies, Your Highness. I took a wrong turn and my curiosity got the better of me,” I say, fighting down the brimming heat in my cheeks and the expletives in the back of my throat.

Prince Caelan offers a small smile. “Victory does have the most beautiful gardens in all of the Four Courts.” He pauses, watching me. “We’re a rare breed, you know.”

I look up, puzzled.

“The curious ones,” he clarifies, and tilts his head. “Every time I see you, you have a longing in your eyes.” He nods gently. “I seem to have it too.”

My mind flashes to the Dayling, and the carriage, and how badly I wanted to get to know Infinity. How badly I wanted to understand.

“Sometimes I feel like this world is too big for me,” I say, and it might be the first real thing I’ve ever said to him.

“Sometimes I feel like I’m too big for this world,” he says with laughter in his silver eyes. “What brings you to the palace?”

My mind shoves honesty out the door and snatches up the first lie it finds. “I came to see the gallery, as you so kindly suggested.”

His expression brightens. “A wrong turn indeed. I’d be delighted to show you the way, if you’d permit me.”

I dip my head and fall into step beside him, careful not to outpace him. I’m already making myself look ridiculous—the last thing I want to do is appear in a hurry to find an exit.

“My brother returned to his own court today,” the prince says suddenly, like a thought that’s just come to light.

“That explains why the palace is so peaceful,” I say, forcing a smile.

Caelan raises a brow, amused. “You may be the only person in Victory who hasn’t embraced his charms. My subjects seem to find his outlandish stories and tasteless jokes delightful.” He releases a tired sigh. “But I suppose I can’t blame them. Ettore is clever; he knows how to be either an enemy or a cherished friend, depending on whichever benefits him most. And he knows how to get the right whispers to the right people.”

“You almost sound impressed.”

“People listen to him.”