Chapter 26

Naska cradled her cup. It felt hot once but grew colder as the moments wore on. But she still felt no temptation to drink it. It wasn't easy to try. Her mind was full of thoughts.

And the thoughts were loud, like they were screaming. They would not behave. She could feel how they swirled and mixed and collided with each other. So angry. So aggressive.

As Mykhol shifted in his seat, Naska looked up. Just the sight of him could feel her with relief. She found her arm again to put the cup down.

“My lord,” Naska spoke more attentively.

“You’ve yet to try the tea.”

And Naska looked down at the cup she had prepared him. It sat neatly on a saucer. The steam still curled up. It was hot, and she didn’t want to see it grow cold.

“Please,” Naska gestured with her hand.

“Have some-”

The loud sigh stopped Naska from going on. She froze in place with her hands out as Mykhol shifted to cross his legs. He leaned back to see the door better. His eyes stayed there as if waiting.

He’s waiting for her t