Griselda's POV
The dinner party ends on a cold, terrifying silence. No one speaks or requests for a dessert.
No one moves when the table is cleared, but they sit there and stare, their faces filled with fear and awe. I sit perfectly still, my hand on the table, the phantom feel of Valerine's throat still on my fingertips as I relish the feeling.
Aidan's hand is on my knee, a little bit possessive that says everything.
Finally, he stands and the court rises with him almost immediately. He doesn't look at them. He looks at me. "Come," he says, his voice low and commanding.
I get up and walk with him, my back straight, my head held high. We leave the dining hall and walk through the quiet, torch-lit corridors. The hallway looks beautiful but devoid of life as no guards nor servants can be sighted.
We reach his chambers. Aidan opens the door, and I step inside, the warmth of the room a glaring contrast to the cold air outside. I walk to the window and stare out at the night.
