Kaelen's POV
"Nothing that wasn't carefully planned." I returned my attention to the healing salve, spreading it across her damaged skin. "Most people are easily swayed by whispered stories."
"The problem is..." Her voice wavered before she steadied herself. "I wasn't honest with you. That's true. But Helena and Daphne played me for a fool. Because neither Daphne nor Cyrus ever fled together."
I remained silent, continuing my methodical work on her injured arm.
"I know you can see the gaps in their version of events," she said, her tone controlled despite the uncertainty flickering in her eyes. "But your wounded pride and misplaced fury won't allow you to acknowledge it. Your hatred blinds you too."
