Rani laughed softly. "Careful, Duchess. Curiosity about powerful men has led to many complications throughout history."
"I'm counting on it," Jazmin said with a wicked smile.
"You will get caught one of these days by your husband."
Jazmin sighed as she stared at the sky through the windows.
"Life's too short to avoid complications. Especially interesting ones."
She stood, smoothing her dress.
"I'll be hosting a salon in three days. Small, intimate, only the most interesting people in Cahns'ar. I want Baron Kaezhlar there."
"He might not accept," Rani pointed out.
"Then make the invitation irresistible," Jazmin replied.
"You're good at that. And tell him—" she paused at the door "—tell him I'm someone who appreciates people who challenge the status quo. That should intrigue him enough to at least consider it."
After the duchess left, Rani sat alone in her chambers, thinking.
