But I don’t think I’m the only one watching her.
Lord Cavinder smiles to himself as if he’s confirmed a suspicion, making the hair on the back of my neck stand on end.
“When have you been in that region, Father?” Frederick asks.
He waves his hand as if dismissing the conversation. “Oh, a time or two. Now, why don’t you all tell us more about the show.”
* * *
As soon asI get the chance, I yank Frederick into an empty room. “Did you tell your father Sabine is the princess?”
“What?” Frederick pries my hand off his arm. “Why would I do that?”
“He knows.”
My friend frowns. “He hasn’t mentioned it to me.”
“I’m certain.”
“What difference does it make if he does? It’s not as if he’ll spread the information about the city.”
I take a step back, assessing him.
His frown deepens. “What is the strange conflict I sense between you and my father?”
“Conflict?” I drop the subject immediately. “What are you talking about?”
Frederick narrows his eyes. “There’s something—why won’t you tell me?”
“There’s nothing to tell.”
“Is it about the money he lent you?” Frederick asks. “If it’s bothering you, I’ll pay him back.”
I snort, shaking my head. “Owing you would be worse.”
And Frederick has no idea how much is on the line. I can’t admit I used the theater as collateral, not even to him.
Adjusting his collar, Frederick sighs. “Even if Father has figured out who Sabine is, he won’t benefit from revealing her secret. I think it’s fine.”
He’s right. What could Lord Cavinder gain from the situation? If there was money to be made from it, I’d have cause for concern, but there isn’t.
“You’re right,” I say, mildly relieved. “I’m just on edge.”
Frederick nods. “Has she forgiven you?”
“I doubt it.”
“Have you apologized?”
I cringe at the idea. “Let’s join the others.”
“Alex…”
“I don’t need a moral lesson from you, Nana Frederick.” I shove him toward the door.
“Your choice,” he says with a laugh. “But if you’re not a bit nicer to the princess, someone might steal her away.”
I don’t like the look he shoots me, but before I can demand to know what he means by that, he steps into the hall.