******
Queen Fortuna let out a long, shaky breath as she sank back into the couch. Her mind replayed everything Lord Rowland had said. The way he looked at her—it wasn't just suspicion. It felt like he already knew the truth. Like he came not to ask questions, but to break her.
If she hadn't known him all her life, she might have panicked and said something foolish. Rowland always had this strong, intimidating presence. When he spoke, people listened. When he questioned, they trembled. That was why he had earned his place as Xylonia's greatest commander. Fortuna had always tried to stay on his good side—unless she absolutely had no choice. He knew too much. Pushing him the wrong way would be dangerous.
"He's gone," Angelina said as she stepped back into the room, gently shutting the door behind her. She moved closer, her voice low. "He left the quarters."
