125

Queen Yeri.

When I step out from the hall, Ozar stands in front of me. Mehera follows behind, heading out to cry or throw herself down the castle windows—I do not care.

"I have to make a decision. And this is only if you are willing to accept it, Mehera. I know you do not wish to return home, nor do you want to give up on us. Therefore, are you willing to become a consort and stay in the castle?" Ozar preludes.

I can feel my heart drop—it is a sense of devastation washing over me as I look at him. The words he just uttered are incomprehensible.

"Excuse me?" I manage to ask, waiting for him to meet my gaze, to clarify the words that are still echoing in my mind.

But instead of the reassurance that I hope for, Ozar’s next words cut again like a knife.

"I wasn’t talking to you," he says, devoid of any warmth and he turns his to face Mehera. "I am speaking to Mehera. So, what is your decision? If you wish to go back home, I will support you. If you wish to find another marriage that woul