Ruined (Ruined, #1)(20)

“Apologies,” Iria finally said. “You look very much like someone I used to know, Your Highness.”

Em hoped her face was currently in some kind of pleasant expression and didn’t give away the fact that she was barely restraining herself from kicking Iria in the gut.

Cas lightly touched her hand, his fingers curling around hers, and Em jumped in surprise. Iria’s amusement intensified as she watched them.

“Please have a seat,” Cas said.

The warriors walked back to their seats, Iria throwing another glance at Em over her shoulder. Cas leaned closer to Em, moving his hand away from hers.

“She was trying to throw you off balance,” he said rather perceptively. “Don’t let her.”

It was excellent advice, though entirely misguided given the circumstances.

The servants filled her plate with food, and the hall buzzed with laughter and chatter. Em forced her food down so Cas wouldn’t become concerned.

After they’d finished eating and the musicians had started playing, the king and queen finally entered the hall. The festivities stopped for a moment, and Em watched as they breezed by the warriors without saying hello. All three of them stared at the queen, hard expressions on their faces. Fabiana must have been the most notorious traitor in Olso, and she certainly wasn’t doing anything to smooth things over now.

Em glanced at Cas as the music started again. She leaned into him, until her lips were close to his ear. “Why were they late?”

He shook his head slightly. “I don’t know.”

“It insulted the warriors,” she said. “Look at their faces.”

Cas casually glanced over at the warriors, then back to Em. “I think that everything insults them. They’re always mad about something.”

“And your parents made sure they’d be angry about this.”

He lifted an eyebrow. “You think so?”

“Yes.” Typical Lera strategy. They were always more concerned with making sure everyone knew how much better they were than with actually showing a little respect.

“I’ll go say hello,” she said. “Make them feel welcome.”

“I got the impression you were scared of them,” he said. “You were staring at Iria as if she was going to jump across the table with a sword and stab you.”

Em’s face twisted in a way that made Cas laugh. “I am not scared!”

“A little fear of the warriors is probably good sense.”

“I’m not scared,” she repeated firmly. “What’s she going to do, stab me in front of everyone?”

“It’s unlikely.”

“That wasn’t very comforting.”

His eyes were bright with amusement. “It was meant to be honest, not comforting. I’ve recently been stabbed at my own wedding, let’s not forget.”

“True.”

He glanced over at the Olso warriors. “Let’s ask them to come over here.”

“No, it would look better if I went to them. It’s a sign of respect.”

He paused for a moment. “All right. I’ll come with you.”

She couldn’t protest that, not without giving away the fact that she wanted to talk to them alone. She stood, and Cas did the same, leaning over to say something to his father. The king frowned, but didn’t protest.

The room quieted as they walked. The Olso warriors turned, then stood as they approached. Surprise crossed the men’s faces as Cas and Em walked around the table and sat down on the bench across from them. Iria still wore her smug expression, which Em decided to pretend she hadn’t noticed.

“How was the food?” Cas asked, gesturing to their empty plates.

“Very good, Your Highness, thank you,” Koldo said.

“They’ll be coming around with more, if you’re still hungry,” Cas said. “And dessert soon. I recommend the fig tarts. They’re delicious.”

Koldo perked up, his eyes scanning the room for the treats. Benito didn’t look at all impressed at the idea of dessert.

“I will be sure to get one,” Iria said. She fixed her gaze on Cas. “Congratulations on your marriage.”

“Thank you.”

“How wonderful that Lera and Vallos could finally be united.” Iria turned her smile from Cas to Em.

“Have you been?” Cas asked. “To Vallos?”

“I have,” Iria said. “A bit dreary, compared to here. Though not nearly as grim as Ruina.”

Em forced her expression to stay neutral. “I’ve never been to Ruina, but I’m sure you’re right.”

“Your Highness,” Iria said, glancing at Cas. “Do you mind if I dance with your wife?”

“If she would like,” he replied.

“I would love to,” Em said, lifting her skirts as she stood. She looped her arm through the girl’s and walked with her to the dance floor.

Iria put a light hand on her back and Em decided to let her lead. No need to antagonize her.

“Is it entirely necessary to have that look on your face?” Em asked through clenched teeth as they began to dance.

“What look?”

“Like you’ve figured something out and are delighted about it. You’re here to help me, remember?”