Her mind spun through damage control scenarios as fast as she could.
Could she intercept them? Redirect their attention? Claim Jack was conducting urgent business that couldn't wait?
But even as she considered options, she knew the truth. Seraphina and S, standing guard outside a closed door, sent one very clear message. And the Sunblade family was too politically experienced not to understand exactly what that message was.
Cassius's eyes found the closed door, tracked to the guards, then moved to Octavia with the knowing expression of someone who'd seen this scenario play out a thousand times in a thousand different contexts.
"Lady Octavia," he said pleasantly. "What a lovely celebration your brother has arranged. We apologize for arriving late; the roads from our territory were more congested than anticipated."
"Lord Sunblade," Octavia managed, her voice steadier than she felt. "Welcome. We're honored by your presence."
