The invitation came in the afternoon.
It wasn't addressed directly to me, which was the first sign that it mattered.
Eli brought it in without comment, placing it on the table beside me as I sat near the window. The seal had already been broken, which meant it had passed through someone else's hands before reaching mine.
"From Lord Harren," Eli said.
I didn't touch it immediately. "Of course it is."
Eli didn't react, but I could feel his attention shift slightly, waiting to see what I would do.
I picked it up after a moment and read it once.
Then again.
It was polite. Carefully written. Nothing in it could be called improper.
Which made it worse.
"He's inviting me to a small gathering," I said, setting it back down.
Eli nodded. "Yes, my lord."
I looked at him. "And you think that's a good idea?"
"I think refusing would be more noticeable."
That was true.
I leaned back slightly, considering it.
