CHAPTER 35

(CADEN'S POV)

“I’m sorry, what?” she asked, clearly caught off guard. I watched Lady Rhea blink in surprise, her confusion evident in her raised voice.

Then she quickly glanced around as if to make sure no one was eavesdropping, before meeting my unwavering gaze once more.

“Your Luna?” she repeated, her voice now steady as she absorbed the weight of my request.

I nodded, my expression earnest. “Yes, Lady Rhea. Duskwynd needs a Luna who embodies strength, grace, and leadership. I see those qualities in you. Will you consider it?”

I watched Lady Rhea’s reactions closely, noting her visible discomfort. I knew all too well how my directness could come off as blunt. My late wife had frequently pointed out my lack of finesse, reminding me that without a touch of subtlety, important negotiations could turn awry.

In that moment, I also caught the subtle twitch at the corner of Lady Rhea’s mouth, a clear sign that she was thrown off balance. For some reason, I could almost hear her thoughts scr