Page 224 of Split or Swallow
Her suggestion hung in the air. She didn’t elaborate, and Leo didn’t ask her to. He was still staring at her when Caspen entered her mind:
Tem. My quiver has made their decision.
CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN
Tem let the silence sit, forcing Caspen to speak again:
I know you are angry with me. But you should know that the Drakons have given you their blessing.
The news had no impact on Tem. She deserved his quiver’s blessing after everything she’d gone through. She expected nothing less.
Caspen continued:
And I know you are with the prince.
Now Tem spoke:
It’s none of your business who I’m with.
A testy pause.
I am not criticizing you. It is your right to spend time with whomever you choose.
His words were taut.
Is that all? I’m about to eat breakfast.
Caspen’s presence loomed larger, and she knew he wanted to keep her with him.
There is something else. I must attend the council meeting tonight.
You told me that already.
I wish for you to attend with me.
That was a surprise to Tem.
Why?
We are now officially engaged. That means you are the future queen. Your presence is expected.
He was the second person to call Tem the future queen. The first was Leo.
Is it safe for me to attend?
Caspen paused. And then:
I will ensure that it is.
Tem heard the resolve in his voice. It brought her little comfort.
Tem? Caspen said when the silence dragged on. Will you attend?
Tem sighed.
I’ll decide later.
Another long pause.
