Page 97 of The Masked Fae (Royal Fae of Rose Briar Woods 1)

Brahm strides down the hall, looking heartbreakingly handsome in his dark, formal doublet—looking like a prince.

Though he seems agitated, he offers his hand as I scramble to my feet. “I see Drake helped you find your way.”

“He did.”

Looking at me, he says, “I hope he knows how grateful I am that he didn’t leave you alone.”

I glance at Drake, my heart twisting over the strange situation. The younger prince merely shrugs as if accustomed to hearing words meant for him directed at other people.

“Your mother let you leave?” I ask Brahm.

He shakes his head. “I told her I was feeling ill, and I excused myself.”

“I thought you couldn’t lie.”

“I can’t.” He brushes my hair behind my ear. “But I’m better now.”

Belated tears sting my eyes.

“You’re all right?” he asks quietly.

I nod, trying to stay composed. This poor family. How have they survived all these years?

Drake bows his head, silently excusing himself, and begins down the hall.

“Thank you,” I call to him.

Drake’s eyes cut to his brother to see how he will respond.

“You can talk to him,” Brahm breathes, saying it as if it was something he knew but only just remembered.

“I can.”

Drake hesitates for another second, and then he continues, eventually disappearing into the door that goes to the stairwell.

Brahm ushers me inside before he turns to me. “Did you speak with Drake?”

“I did.”

“And…he spoke back?”

He looks torn, and I have no idea what answer would ease his anguish. “He did.”

Brahm lets out a long sigh. “I am envious of you, Alice.”

“He spoke at dinner,” I point out. “How is that possible?”

“Drake has always been able to talk—that was never taken from him. But no one could answer. Eventually, he fell quiet.”

“Forgive me,” I say darkly, “but your mother is a wretched person.”

He laughs under his breath. “I am aware.”

I look up at him solemnly. “Don’t give her a reason to hurt you.”

“You sound like Sabine.”

“Then maybe I will get along with your sister.”