---
The word struck oddly after everything else that was already attached to it in Sekhmet's mind. The wedding was done. Honeymoon remaining. Turning plans postponed but still near. The hidden life under his roof. The blood sovereign threat. And now Mihos.
"No. Not now."
Interesting timing, though. Too interesting.
His eyes narrowed slightly.
Had Mihos come by chance in the same narrow space of days as the hidden wedding? No.The wedding, of course, he did not know. But the heir's movement into the city right after Iron House pressure failed was no coincidence.
This was response.
Assessment.
Perhaps the first touch of a hand that intended to close later.
Lily saw the line of his jaw harden and knew what it meant even if she did not yet know every name in the game.
Elena said, "We will not answer immediately."
Kess bowed. "As Lady Elena sees fit."
Sekhmet looked at him again. "Where is Mihos staying."
Kess hesitated. Only slightly.
Sekhmet caught it.
