Bella's POV
Caspian's statement caught both Elias and me off guard.
I could see Elias's bewildered expression as he processed what had just happened. 'Is Prince Caspian actually defending Bella Fairfax?'
Most noble daughters never traveled alone - they'd bring at least five or six servants and chaperones with them. Yet here I was with only Penny at my side.
I noticed Elias stealing glances at Caspian, whose expression stayed stern until his eyes found me. Then something almost tender flickered across his features.
Besides, Caspian wasn't known for caring about just anyone's circumstances.
The longer Elias stared between us, the more stunned he appeared.
After all these years, it seemed Caspian had finally discovered what love felt like.
As Elias studied me more intently, I could tell he was picturing me as Caspian's future bride.
I wasn't fragile or fake - apparently the perfect complement to Caspian's nature.
Without warning, Elias actually laughed out loud.
