The female’s entire body rioted against his command, but she clenched her jaw, pivoting and making her way around the table toward the door, her chin held high and her eyes promising retaliation.

Vesstan waited until the door had closed before he leaned forward, rubbing his thumb and forefinger between his eyes. It was the first time he’d looked his age.

When he finally raised his head, he eyed Jaren disapprovingly. “That was unnecessary. I already stated I believed it, and my opinion is the only one that matters.”

Vera bristled. Taeral’s entire presence had been unnecessary, not Jaren’s defense of her. She’d have thought, as king, he’d understand a mating bond a little bit better.

“I’m assuming, based on your calm demeanor, this is not the first time her instincts have reacted in such a way,” he said, cleaning up some of the mess in front of him.

Jaren’s lips twitched, pride shooting down their bond. “She killed a man with a rock.”

Oh my fucking gods.

But Vesstan nodded like he’d simply remarked on the pleasant weather. “Even so, the truth stands that you cannot control it. And that, combined with your overall lack of…knowledge, is indeed, a problem.”

She put a hand to her temple, feeling suddenly dizzy. Gods, how much had she drank? “So, what do you suggest I do? I can’t help what I wasn’t given the opportunity to know.”

“Agreed, but that doesn’t change anything. You are not fit to lead a people you cannot even write a summons to, let alone understand the geography of the island, or the differences between the cities and their citizens.”

She wanted to argue, to steel her spine and tell him she could. But he was right. Gods damn him, he was right.

“I’m sure you understand.”

She darted a look at Jaren, who stared at her wordlessly, his eyes hard. I told you, little star.

“Okay,” she said, exhaling and running her palms down her thighs. “So, what do you suggest?”

“I’ve spent the last week pondering what to do with you,” he said, sitting back and resting an arm over Taeral’s empty chair. “Don’t look so nervous, I’m not going to lock you in an armory.”

She forced a smile to her face, knowing it’s what he wanted. But the last thread of hope she’d held about him fell away at his words. What kind of father made jokes about his child’s trauma?

“You will obviously start with learning how to read and write, and then move on to basic geography and history. Then, of course, you will need to know both Vaneara’s and my family lines by heart, and successfully pass a round of etiquette classes.”

Next to her, Jaren choked on his drink.

Great. “And at what point will I be deemed ready?” Three months from now? Six? It couldn’t be that hard to learn to read and do whatever the fuck etiquette classes entailed. Just as long as it didn’t take away from her training with Reniya.