“It’s hard to change everything you’ve believed all your life about bluebloods,” Han said. “I guess there was a place in me that was just waiting for it to go wrong, for you to realize your mistake.” He shrugged, embarrassed. “I’m sorry.”

After that, there was a lot more kissing, and no talk at all. They ended tucked up together in a corner, Raisa’s head on Han’s chest, her arm draped across him.

“So what happens now?” Han said. “Since you aren’t getting married.”

“Oh, I am getting married,” Raisa said sleepily. “You promised me that if I agreed to marry you, that you would make it happen.” She extended her hand, the one with the ring Han had given her, and waved it under his nose. “So. It’s time to pay up.”

C H A P T E R  F I F T Y - S E V E N

BLESSINGS AND
CURSES

Amon gripped Raisa’s shoulders, searching her eyes. “Are you sure, Rai? Are you sure you want this?”

“I’m sure,” Raisa said. “I love him, and we’re going to marry.”

Amon swiveled away, examining the cold ashes on the hearth with great interest. Raisa had chosen to flout protocol and had sought him out in his quarters in the barracks of the castle close. Leaving her guard outside, she had met with him alone.

“If you’re still worried about the murders in Ragmarket, Han Alister is not responsible.”

“I know,” he said, shrugging assent. “I’m not sure I ever believed he was. He’s too smart to murder people and leave clues everywhere.” He turned back toward her, his face taut with worry. “But do you have to announce it now? Could you wait until things are more stable?”

Raisa shook her head. “I’m thinking there may be some advantage to acting while the situation is still fluid, before everyone falls back into old patterns.” Did she really believe that, or was she just trying to convince herself?

“What does your father say?” Amon asked.

“He doesn’t know yet. I leave for Marisa Pines Camp this afternoon. I know the Demonai, especially, will be furious with me, but there’s nothing I can do but prepare for that.”

“It may put your life in danger,” Amon said bluntly.

“Like it isn’t already?” Raisa rolled her eyes. Then, seeing the pain on his face, she crossed the room and took his hands. “Who knows—maybe it would improve things if we all weren’t involved in this relentless marital dance.”

Their eyes met—these two people who had once been part of the dance themselves. Now betrothed to other people.

“You’ll be married yourself, soon,” Raisa said gently. “Next spring, right?”

Amon nodded. “Next spring, aye, assuming the Ardenines stay in the south and we’re not at war.” He swallowed hard. “We’ve not chosen a date.”