Chapter 213 Grounded

CASSANDRA

Given my experience with Kaleb and his intensity, I’d half-expected Ronald to force me into an answer before letting me leave the greenhouse.

But much to my surprise, after he’d made his statement, he offered me a smile and a small, polite bow.

“You have plenty of time to consider my offer,” he said, his kind blue eyes earnest as they stared into mine.

I was relieved that I wasn’t being forced right away, but in the back of my mind, I knew I would have to face this again later. He didn’t say when he’d ask again for my answer, and instead, asked me some questions about Wegalla. They were small questions about Southern culture and how it compared to the cold North of Yurene. Had it not been for the deal he’d proposed, it would have been a comfortable chat between new acquaintances.

When we finally left the greenhouse, the party had nearly come to an end. I searched the expansive banquet hall, but I couldn’t find Roxy, Raven, or Kaleb. Guests were leaving all around us, an