Chapter 96

Aria leaned against the wooden railing nearby, arms crossing loosely. “I figured…” she admitted. “…I think?”

Selena studied her face. “It wasn’t betrayal.”

“I know.”

“But Cole doesn’t.” Selena pointed out her worry.

Aria looked toward the courtyard where Cole stood in the distance, speaking with the stable hand now. “It’s hard for him to see it that way,” she said quietly. “The way it happened… anyone would struggle with it.”

Selena nodded. “Aren knew that.”

“He still did it.”

“Because he believed it would protect Ironwood.” Aria glanced back at Selena after she spoke. “And Cole.” She added.

“He would never admit it out loud, but yes.” Aria nodded.

They stood in silence for a moment. Aria rubbed her thumb along the railing thoughtfully. “That’s actually why I convinced Cole to go away with me for a bit.”

Selena raised a brow slightly. “You did?”

“He needs time to cool off,” Aria said. “If he stays here, surrounded by