Page 177 of Infernal Bonds

He kept insisting I shouldn’t be here, but he wouldn’t elaborate.

I looked up, noticing Kavina still waiting at the drink shop; the line wasn’t getting any shorter.

“I also wanted to let you know that I had nothing to do with you being kidnapped. I don’t know who did that.”

My shoulders tensed at his words. The guys had considered whether Kairian had any involvement in my kidnapping and subsequent dumping in Feranzis, but they’d not been able to prove it. Even suggesting it had angered Cornaith, so no one had mentioned it since.

“You’re just… randomly volunteering that? I never said you did.”

“No, but I’m sure Cyn and probably the others have you thinking I was involved after what happened in the hall.”

I didn’t respond.

“And if you don’t believe me, I can take you to my dad to prove it.”

“How?”

“He’ll back me up. I never left the palace until he was ready to leave.”

But what if your dad was involved?

I’d never actually say that to him, but I couldn’t stop the thought from crossing my mind. I wasn’t going anywhere with this guy.

“It’s not necessary,” I mumbled, stabbing my fork into the noodles just to give myself something to do and quell the rising anxiety making my skin feel tight.

His eyes darkened. With his narrowed gaze, long hair, and pale eyes, he looked dangerous. My hand tightened around my fork.

“Does that mean we’re good?” His tone had shifted, sounding upbeat and friendly again.

I looked at him, taken aback by the sudden shift in demeanor. “Huh?”

“Forgive me?”

My mouth parted to say something before I’d even decided on it, but I shook my head. “I guess?”

“Good!” He rose to his feet, making me flinch despite my best efforts to hide my anxiety. “Maybe we’ll see more of each other in the palace. Doesn’t seem like Dad is looking to leave Alonia anytime soon.”

With those parting words, he disappeared into the crowd, leaving me more confused than ever.

“Raelynn?”

I jumped at the sound of Rinlora’s voice. Taking a calming breath, I said, “Hey! What are you doing here?” I smiled, trying to force myself to be at ease. “And I told you, call me Rae.”

“Right. Sorry about that.” She came up to the table but didn’t sit down. “I’ve been instructed to come get you. Cornaith is ready to begin his testing.”

“What?” I looked to where Kavina stood at the register. “Now? But I’m with Kavina.”

“I’m sorry.” Rinlora followed my gaze and worried her hands in front of her.

“Dammit.” I put my fork down. “Let me tell Kavina. My phone is charging in her car. Once I get that, we can go.”

“I already messaged her. She’s going to finish up and take her food home. But we need to go now. I’m sorry.”

“Oh.” I smiled apologetically as Kavina turned from the counter and headed our way.

“Master Kilnejar doesn’t like to be kept waiting, as you know, so you won’t have time to get your phone.”

I rolled my eyes, once again wishing it were legal to punch an authority figure without consequence. “How did you find me, anyway?” I stood and pushed in my chair, following her to the door.