Chapter 81

Riftan turned back to the smiling princess across the table with a stony expression.

"Would that be to your satisfaction, Your Highness?"

"As a mere unwanted guest, I would not dare complain. I am nothing but grateful that you would allow your cherished wife to accompany me."

Placing a hand on her chest, the princess postured as though she had just received the highest of honors.

Maxi's face flushed. Riftan had only expressed concern for his wife's safety while showing none for the royal sitting right before him. It would not have been surprising for anyone had the princess taken offence. Instead, Princess Agnes seemed to find Riftan's reaction amusing.

"It seems I am not the only one who hasn't changed, Your Highness."

Riftan shook his head as he regarded the grinning princess. He spoke as if he wearied of her, but his tone suggested a familiarity that made Maxi's heart ache.