Chapter 42

From Trystan’s point of view, three days have passed since Evie Sage stopped speaking to him. He keeps his office door cracked to hear the office, while pixies glare at him and Evie silently brings his cauldron brew each morning. Trystan tells himself her silence is welcome, but he obsessively notices every detail of her absence from her usual habits.

Trystan replays Evie’s earlier plea for him to kiss her and wonders whether Evie truly wanted him or was only reacting to stress. He also recognizes that Evie may be angry because Trystan overruled Evie and forced Evie to stay at the manor for safety. Trystan tries to frame his concern as professional, but Trystan’s feelings make that impossible to believe.

A raven has brought Trystan a useful tip: Evie’s village is holding a festival, which gives Trystan the perfect opportunity to enter unnoticed and investigate the art vendor lead. Instead of feeling triumphant, Trystan feels isolated because nearly everyone at the manor is angry with him. Kingsley warns him with signs, but Trystan is too tired and distracted to make use of the warning.

Evie enters and politely asks whether Trystan needs help preparing for the trip into her village. Trystan insists he has everything under control and explains that he will take his carriage, have Keeley and Nesma ride behind him as a precaution, and then continue alone. Evie’s pleasant expression barely hides her hurt, and Trystan understands that he has again given the wrong answer.

When Evie turns to leave, Trystan instinctively grabs Evie’s hand, overwhelmed by wanting Evie while knowing Evie is his employee. Trystan’s internal struggle breaks out as an abrupt denial, which Evie interprets as rejection. Evie leaves after saying she will spend the evening drinking with guards, deliberately provoking Trystan by implying interest in Daniel, and Trystan is left regretting everything.