It didn't help that she instantly recalled Clara's words about Jared's interest in her, something she had not previously believed in but could no longer continue to pretend was not there.
His eyes had softened as he looked at her, almost like he was no longer a king but more of a man, as he continued talking.
"He killed your father and brother! Surely you have no intention of leaving the bond as it is. Moreover, breaking the bond will weaken him!" Jared told her, even though Aria was also aware of what he left unsaid.
'It would weaken me too, if not worse!' she thought. The worst-case scenario would be for her to be completely stripped of all her powers—something she couldn't afford to let happen.
"I'll keep it in mind," she said simply from the bit of distance she maintained from him, even as his expression darkened. His eyes strayed to her neck and bare shoulders, visible in the red dress she wore even beneath the dark coat draped around her.
