Arabella's gaze flicked toward Cassius, searching his expression, but he only lifted his shoulders in a languid shrug, his disinterest as obvious as it was deceptive. She had spent enough time by his side to recognize that look, he might appear bored, but a plan was already forming behind those cold eyes. Whatever this imposter was playing at, Cassius would not leave it unanswered.
Arabella's own curiosity, however, stirred restlessly. An impostor who wore her beloved's face and utter prophecies? What manner of trickery was that, and what kind of danger did it invite?
Paolo, meanwhile, looked almost relieved to have her attention. For once, someone at court seemed eager to hear him out rather than drown his concerns beneath Cassius's silence and sharp dismissals. His voice grew steady, solemn.
