A Dance of Silver and Shadow (Beyond the Four Kingdoms, #1)

by Melanie Cellier

I would much rather marry a knight on a noble quest.” I coughed. “Do you have a lot of those in Trione?” She looked defensive. “I only need one.” This surprised a snorted chuckle from me, but I quickly returned my expression to solemnity. “Very true, excuse my foolishness.”

“There are still five events to go. That’s plenty of time for the scores to change. You might fall and break your ankle like Celine.” I wanted to shake my head at the sort of twisted situation that would make that a loving statement.

“Do you think, just for a few hours, we could pretend that there is no Tourney and no coup. That the Emissary just sailed into the harbor one bright Spring morning and brought me my heart’s desire, no strings attached.”

“It’s what makes me such an excellent catch. I can assure you that not even tears are enough to dismay me. I’ve won over many a lady, old and young, with my handy handkerchief and complete lack of terror.”

“I’ve come to save you from yourself.” His serious expression broke for a minute. “And from that lion, too, of course.”