"It is about Sebastian," Arion said.
Nero's expression did not change.
That was worse than if it had.
The playful heir vanished so completely that, for a moment, Arion saw the man Saha showed the world: Prince Nero Ezekiel, son of Dax and Chris, enigma of impossible strength, beautiful in the way dangerous things were often beautiful before someone got close enough to bleed.
The menace was for family.
This was the prince.
"Then say the terms clearly," Nero said.
Arion did not soften them. "You will not use what I tell you. You will not allow anyone to know that you know. You will not approach Sebastian because of it, directly or indirectly."
Nero's mouth twitched once, faint and humorless. "You have learned me well."
"I have watched Dax for years."
"That is an insult to both of us."
"It is accuracy."
For a heartbeat, something like amusement returned to Nero's eyes.
Then it was gone.
