Chapter 23. The Eyes

Harlyn

Stefan stands before me, and I can sense I am annoying him. I feel angry at him, though, and I'm not entirely sure why, so rather than ignoring it, I use it and taunt him.

“Yes, that; now you can stop playing dumb and acting like you have no memory of it,” he snaps, and I almost laugh.

“I wasn’t playing dumb, Your Majesty. I honestly forgot about it.” Pausing, I smile at him. “Isn’t that what you wanted? This wretch to forget about you and leave you alone?” I watch as his eyes widen at my words.

He was expecting a weak, pathetic Harlyn. Sure, I can’t just walk away and dismiss him, but I can undoubtedly use words to taunt him. Hate builds within me, and it's an unusual feeling. Something I can't squash.

“Is that all, Your Majesty? I must see the Princess,” I say before turning to leave.

His hand snaps out and grabs mine. Again? That is twice in one day he’s touched me.

“No, you’re not going anywhere,” his voice e