"Fine. It matters not," Evangeline cut through the freezing density of the room, her voice regaining its smooth, unyielding edge. "Return to your chamber tonight, Silver. I want absolutely no complications right now."
"But, My Queen..." he protested, the dark register of his voice fracturing with a rare, vulnerable reluctance.
"Silver," she interrupted, her tone dropping into a low, imperial warning that brooked no argument. "I gave an order. Execute it without objection."
The volatile energy that had consumed him moments ago withered. Silver lowered his head in silent, palpable ache, his shoulders stiffening as he turned to walk away. His steps, usually as silent as a hunting predator, felt heavy across the stone floor.
Evangeline tracked his retreating figure through the vanity mirror. A sudden, sharp tightening in her chest made her halt. She cast a final, lingering gaze at his back, her voice softening into a hushed but intense whisper.
