End of the Charade

TORIN

The question hung between us long after I spoke it. Vanya stood perfectly still, but the brief change in her expression told me more than any answer could have.

"I do not know what you mean."

"You do."

She looked away first, pretending to straighten the sleeve of her dress. The small movement only confirmed that she was buying herself time.

"I have not seen Maevia."

"I did not ask whether yo