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Chapter Twenty-Three

Aleksander

After dinner that evening, I escort Asha to her bedchamber, where Commander Titanus stands, just like he always does.

The moment we stop outside her door, I turn to face her. “I think it’s time we set a date for our wedding.”

Her vibrant blue eyes meet mine for a moment before she darts her gaze away. “Soon,” she says, her voice distant.

I study her, noting the tension in her shoulders and the way her jaw clenches. Something’s off, something I can’t quite pinpoint, but I will not press the issue. At least, not yet.

Instead, I bow my head. “Good night, Asha.”

She nods, and Titanus opens the door for her, and she slips into her bedchamber. I stand there for a moment before turning and striding down the corridor.

I’ve always been attuned to body language, but Asha is different. As much as I want to break through her walls, I know it will take time.

She’s been through a lot—more than I can ever understand. After all, I have never lost a child.

For now, I have other matters to attend to. House of Silver needs me, needs us, and I’ll do whatever it takes to ensure our success, even if it means putting my own desires aside.