Aerea sat at the edge of her bed, her fingers gripping the edges of her gown as she stared at the flames flickering in the hearth. Her mind swirled with thoughts of betrayal and her brother-husband, Maelon, who had been acting distant of late.

"You've been gone more than usual," she said, her voice sharp as she turned to him, her violet eyes narrowing.

He gave a slight smile, too faint for her liking. "I just helped with the councilers."

She stood up abruptly, her breath catching. "Councillors," she repeated bitterly, eyes narrowing. "Or a woman’s bed? Are you seeing someone else?"

He blinked in surprise, his brow furrowing. She was never like this before. He opened his mouth to speak, when suddenly she rushed over to him.

Her heart pounded in her chest. She reached for him, her hand raised, fingers curled like claws ready to strike. For a moment, her fury consumed her, the jealousy taking over. She wanted to hurt him for betraying her.

But she froze, stopping herself just before her fingers could make contact with his face. The irritation surged, but she fought it, forcing a shallow breath. She had no reason to believe he was truly unfaithful.

"I’m sorry," she whispered, lowering her hand slowly, the smile on her lips forced. "I don’t know what came over me."