Chapter 83: The Pieces on a Chessboard

ETAN

Letting go of Ayleth was like tearing out his own rib. And it was worse when Trystan took her from him with a look of sympathy in his eyes.

Etan bristled—which was probably just as well, since many were watching them. For him to look angry and hostile would only work in their favor. But his rage against the injustice of it all, the sheer unfairness that he could not Court her, that he would only endanger both of them by trying, that he had to leave her in the hands of other men… it burned in his skin.

His heart was thumping when he returned to Borsche, who cut him a very disapproving look, but was forced to keep his attention on the cluster of nobles that had gathered to see him juggle.

It was just as well, Etan couldn't concentrate just then. It took every ounce of his energy to keep his eyes off of Ayleth on the dancers on the floor.