Eryndor stood at the end of the corridor, completely still.
Rin could see immediately that something was wrong.
The boy's face was unusually pale.
His hands were clenched at his sides, and his eyes were fixed on Rin as if he had just heard something he wasn't supposed to hear.
Rin slowed his steps.
"Eryndor."
Eryndor didn't answer.
The Crown Prince, walking beside Rin, stopped as well.
For a few seconds, nobody spoke. Then Eryndor lowered his head.
"You refused."
Rin frowned.
"What?"
"The engagement."
Rin understood.
"You heard us."
Eryndor nodded.
"I was coming to the great hall when I heard your voice."
Rin walked closer.
"Eryndor—"
"Why?"
Rin stopped.
"Why did you do that?"
"Because I don't want to marry him."
"That's not what I mean."
Eryndor finally looked up.
"Then what?"
His voice was quiet.
"Why did you refuse because of me?"
Rin's heart tightened.
"I didn't."
"You did."
"No."
"I heard you."
Eryndor stepped closer.
