The words were tantalizing, but who did he spend time with today? The thought made me chuckle bitterly.

What right did I have to interfere with his choice of company? How often had I been oblivious to that? How could I possibly know?

“Why are you laughing?” His patience was wearing thin.

“Enough, Mr. Atlas. I wouldn’t dare ask you to keep me company.” I pouted. “A mere commoner like myself wouldn’t dare!”

Truly, I wouldn’t dare. He wasn’t mine to claim, and I had to give myself a reality che