82. Decisions

[ELARA]

My thoughts keep me awake through the night, but beside me, Magnus sleeps. And he sleeps well. His chest rises and falls with a steady rhythm, his features softened in the quiet peace of slumber. There’s no tension in his brow, no restless stirring. It’s as if a great burden has been lifted off him, and I know exactly why.

He’s unburdened — glad of the move he made. His sister is now betrothed to Prince Rasmus of Qaiven, a calculated maneuver that ensures Ruelle’s safety. He believes her future is secure, that she will be protected. For Magnus, it is a victory, another checkmate in his game of strategy. I’ve watched him over the past few nights, restless and brooding, pacing the room in the dead of night, his thoughts as troubled as mine. But not tonight.

Tonight, he sleeps like a baby.

And yet, I am wide awake, left to question everything about his choice.

It was a cruel way to go about it. Ruelle’s reputation is ruined. There’s no taking back the whispers that now circulate t