Faye's POV
"You want me to return to the mansion?" The question escaped my lips before I could think better of it. "But why?"
The confusion in my voice was impossible to hide.
How could he offer an apology one moment, then demand I leave the next? Nothing about this situation made any sense.
Hardy remained silent. He moved across the room with deliberate steps, reaching for a bottle of wine and pouring himself a generous glass.
The soft splash of liquid was his only response.
My heart clenched painfully. "You're ignoring me," I said, letting frustration creep into my tone. "Why do I need to go back to the northern walls? My place is here. Matron Kyra just discovered my abilities, and she needs me to—"
"That wasn't a request." His words sliced through my explanation like ice.
I stood there, the air suddenly feeling too thick to breathe. "What are you saying?" The question came out smaller than I intended.
