Cassian returned to the carriage to sit down, but seeing that Lilith was fast asleep, he chose to remain on his horse so as not to disturb her slumber. He rode close to her carriage, keeping a watchful eye on his mother’s and uncle’s carriages.

Eric rode forward to Cassian. "Did you slip something into his drinks?"

"No. He’s simply trying to draw attention to himself. Keep an eye on him. He is not to approach Lilith when we return to the castle," Cassian instructed.

Eric nodded and slowed his pace, positioning himself closer to Richard.

Upon their return to the castle, Cassian dismounted and went to the carriage, opening the door for Lilith and offering his hand.

Lilith was awake now and stood to exit, placing her hand in Cassian’s as she stepped down. "That was a rather peaceful ride. You did your part well," she said. 𝑓𝘳𝑒𝑒𝓌𝘦𝘣𝘯ℴ𝑣𝘦𝑙.𝘤𝑜𝑚

"I like to keep my promises. Now," Cassian said, caging her hand before she could pull away. "Let’s get you fed."

"You’re going to lose a finger eventually if you keep holding my hand. Are you one of those people who must always touch others?" Lilith asked, not attempting to move her hand since Cassian’s grip was stronger.

"No. Can’t a man simply want to touch his wife?" Cassian asked, tightening his hold.

"He can, but not as firmly as you are holding my hand now. Are you trying to break it? You don’t need to hold it as though I will run away. This needy side doesn’t suit you," Lilith said, relaxing once he loosened his grip.

"You like it, Lilith. If not, you would have threatened to stab me already," Cassian teased.

"I would, if I could reach my dagger. I cannot wait for this celebration to be over. I am not going to eat as too many hands have been in the kitchens today, and we have been away from the castle for too long," Lilith said, worried there was a window for someone to strike.

"I assure you the food is fine. Only servants I brought from my estate are permitted in the kitchens and to carry your food. Let us make a deal. If there is anything wrong with your food to your eyes, you may stab me right here," Cassian said, tapping his chest.

"A little higher," Lilith demanded. "You’re a soldier. You know a little higher will kill you. Don’t offer me the chance to strike if it’s not the right place."

Cassian chuckled, as though they were not speaking of death. "Very well, you may stab me there. When you have time, you must ask the cooks and their servants what orders I gave them. Then you will never doubt the safety of your food."

"Can’t you just tell me? Why send me chasing through the kitchens?" Lilith asked, already bored.

"Because it’s fun, Lilith. You do know how to have fun, don’t you?"

"I do. Rather than food, I would like a glass of wine," Lilith decided.

Together, they walked to the dining chamber where the feast was being held. They took their seats at the long table with two chairs, while the other guests found their places at separate tables.

Music began to play, the notes weaving through the air as servants hurried about with trays of food.

Lilith watched quietly, enjoying for once being a guest at a gathering rather than being pushed aside with some pitiful excuse from the queen about being too ill to attend.

Lilith sipped the red wine poured for her by Mary, her gaze sweeping over the guests. She welcomed the Mortimers in small groups, exchanging words with them.

Her attention lingered on Richard, noting his unsteady movements and slurred voice. She hid her smile behind the rim of her glass, watching intently as he was poured another drink.

Two young men, whom Lilith assumed to be his sons, tried to stop him, but he refused.

"Cassian, his behaviour is getting out of hand. If those young gentlemen are your cousins, they are in need of help. On second thought, it seems your mother needs help," Lilith said, following Richard with her eyes as he staggered towards Diana.

Lilith moved her glass aside, signalling Mary to pour more wine.

Cassian rose, fury and hatred flashing in his eyes as he saw Richard boldly approach his mother.

"My son is about to be a duke. His name will travel far across the lands!" Richard declared, leaning close to Diana.

Diana placed her hand firmly on his chest to push him back. "You must stop making a fool of yourself, your sons, and the Mortimer name. You’ve had enough to drink. If you care for his reputation, take him back to his chamber and force him to rest," she instructed Richard’s sons.

Richard smiled, unwilling to leave before speaking his mind. "We should all be truthful today about what we feel. I..." he stammered, the cup slipping from his hand. "I..." His hand flew to his chest, clutching at the discomfort. "Help me," he pleaded, though his voice was barely audible.

"Uncle!" Cassian’s call rang out as he approached.

Diana stared at Richard, puzzled by his state. He looked unwell, gripping his chest. "He’s unwell. Catch him," she ordered his sons before he collapsed.

Cassian’s anger shifted to confusion as he watched his cousins cradle their father.

"Send for a doctor!" Cassian commanded.

Diana stepped back, allowing Richard’s sons to hold him while they awaited the physician. She glanced at Cassian, wondering if he had orchestrated this or if it was natural. She had no chance to act on her suspicions.

"Cassian," Diana said, approaching and reaching for his arm. Tears filled her eyes as she played the role of a troubled relative.

Cassian studied her expression, questioning whether she had a hand in this, but for a moment, his gaze drifted back to Lilith, still seated with her wine.

Lilith drained the last of her glass and rose to join the commotion around Richard. It was fleeting, but Cassian caught a glimpse of her satisfied smile before it vanished.