Kalistra dismissed the other attendants, then looked toward Azrayel.
"Your Royal Highness, may I have a moment alone with the princess?"
Azrayel remained beside the door.
He had followed them from the memorial court without speaking. The careful distance he had maintained throughout the ceremony had disappeared the moment Metheea nearly fell. Now he watched her with an intensity that made the heat beneath her skin tighten.
"She nearly collapsed," he said.
"I know." Kalistra lowered her head. "Her dress must be removed, and I cannot help her properly while you remain."
"Send for Michael."
"That is unnecessary, brother," Metheea said.
The word was deliberate.
Azrayel's attention shifted to her.
