Chapter 39. A Family Reunion

Cassian POV

I follow Lyra as she runs toward the stern of the ship. As soon as she calls out to her mother, I notice the familiar standard banners of Maelie on the opposite pier, confirming this is indeed her father’s vessel.

She waves at her mother violently, jumping up and down and hollering until the queen finally takes notice. Even at this distance, I can see the queen’s eyes brighten when she spots her daughter.

The queen takes her husband’s arm from behind and prevents him from boarding their ship, excitedly pointing up to Lyra. He pauses for a moment, his expression turning from confusion to disinterest… to disgust. I can feel the tension in my mate at his reaction.

Goddess, I hate that bastard. He’ll need to be dealt with sooner rather than later.

But Lyra’s cheerfulness cont