Layle's jaw flexed. "She thinks you're being… forced to be married and that the pregnancy is a pressure point."
Rafael let out a quiet, unimpressed breath. "Of course."
Layle's eyes flicked off-screen, checking the front seat again, then back to Rafael. "She conveniently forgets she's the main manipulator."
Rafael's smile sharpened. "That would require self-awareness."
Layle's smile showed. "She ordered me back to the capital."
"Ordered," Rafael repeated, amused.
"Yes," Layle said flatly. "And before you ask, I'm going. I don't plan to drag you anywhere. I'm going because if I don't show up, she'll escalate, and I'd rather be in the room when she tries something than read about it after."
Rafael's eyes softened by a fraction. "Good. Use your spine."
Layle exhaled. "I intend to. She wants both of us under her control again. And…" his gaze tightened, "you know she hates Tessa."
Rafael went still at the name. "I know."
