Silk and Scorn

NYSSA'S POV

"I think I should go see what Matilda brought for me," I said, trying to sound casual even though my stomach was twisting.

Kaelen's eyes flicked toward the stairs, his jaw still tight from earlier. "Go on then," he said softly. "I'll join you later."

I nodded, forcing a smile before turning away. As I made my way upstairs, my heart thumped nervously in my chest. The encounter downstair