Chapter 48: Treason?

AYLETH

Ayleth swallowed. "I wish to trust you, Falek." His eyes sharpened and she hurried on. "What I mean is—I do trust you. But for me to answer that question… for me to answer it could put more than just myself at risk."

Falek tipped his head and his hand unconsciously went to his hilt. "What kind of risk?"

Ayleth took a breath and turned away from him to walk to the doors out to the balcony and closed them, then turned to face him. He hadn't moved and his eyes followed her every mood—his jaw a hard line.

"What was the question again?" she asked faintly.

He drew himself up. "I asked if the man you met—and stayed with all night—is he a true suitor? Someone who wishes to marry? Is he deserving of being your husband? Or is he someone your parents would deem wholly unsuitable?"

"Both. All," she whispered.

His gaze took on the glint of a knife. "Ayleth—"

"I need your help, Falek."