The fight had ended, but the silence afterward was even worse.
Austin stood by the window of his room with his back to her. His shoulders were tense, carrying the weight of the duchy, his hidden sister, the coming inquiry, and now Alina's secret too.
Alina sat on the edge of the bed, twisting her fingers in her lap. She wanted to go to him, to hold him and apologize properly, but she knew she had lost the right to stand on moral ground tonight.
They stayed like that for several minutes. Alina was sure Austin won't talk to her. Finally, Austin turned around.
His anger was gone now, leaving only exhaustion in its place. He crossed the room and sat at the foot of the bed, facing her.
"I understand why you did it," he said.
Alina looked up, surprised by the gentleness in his voice.
"I understand the women in the pact," he continued. "Your cause is noble and I have no problem with it. But the secrecy… that I don't understand."
He shook his head.
