He knew she meant this not as an asset, but as a fault. “It’s not nearly as soft as you might think.”
“Isn’t it? But perhaps a heart takes experience and time to harden. When you will not flinch to learn shocking truths. I hope to be here when that happens. I think you have the potential for greatness, even if you don’t believe it yourself.”
He’d rarely noticed before how much he utterly disliked this woman.
“Thank you for your opinion, Sabina. Now, what exactly was it you wanted to see me about? Or was it just to rehash part of my conversation with Father that, really, is none of your business?”
“I thought I’d come for a visit. We so rarely get to spend any time alone together.”
“Ah,” he said blandly. “And I so enjoy your company.”
She watched him with that predatory look he’d noticed her give other people when they weren’t watching. She was the most intimidating woman he’d ever known. Her dead husband, on the other hand, had been the kindest man who had ever stepped foot inside the palace. But he’d always had a look on his face as if he constantly expected someone to strike him. Perhaps his wife.
Magnus hoped very much that he didn’t share the same look. Those who appeared to be victims were always the easiest to victimize.
“You know, without that scar, you’d be a flawlessly handsome young man.” Sabina cast a leisurely glance over him. “Even with it, you’re still very attractive.”
He absently brushed his fingertips against his scar. “I appreciate the compliment,” he lied.
“Aren’t you going to compliment me in return?”
“I grow weary of games, Sabina. Either get to the point or leave.” He gave her a piercing look. “Unless you want to demonstrate your magic. My father said you’re a witch, but I’ve never met a real witch before and I must say I’m curious.”
“A real witch would never blatantly use her powers in the open for anyone to see. That would be risking exposure to those who might mean her harm.”
“I suppose you’re right.”
“You’d best tell Lucia the same thing.”
His chest tightened. “My father believes she’s a sorceress, but I’ve seen no evidence of anything unusual.”
“Are you sure?” Sabina eyed him with open amusement. “I think you’re lying.”
“I’m not. What I am sure about is that I’d like you to leave my chambers.” He forced a smile. “If you please.”
“Am I making you uncomfortable?”
“Not at all. But I’m tired and I wish to sleep.”
That annoyingly amused look remained on her face. It was as if nothing he said had any effect on her. “I like you, Magnus.”
“I’m deeply honored,” he said drily.
She moved closer to him, sweeping her gaze over his tall frame from head to toe and then slowly back up again. “Your father has become obsessed with this drive to conquer Auranos. He hasn’t had much time for me lately, except to seek guidance on certain decisions. He’s spent today organizing a meeting in Auranos with Chief Basilius and King Corvin himself to discuss matters before they escalate.”
“He’s a busy man.”
“I grow lonely.” Again she walked slowly around him. Her gaze felt weighted and uncomfortable. “And I know that you’re also lonely. You haven’t yet chosen a future bride, even though you’re only weeks from turning eighteen. And you spend so very much time all by yourself. Whatever do you do with your days and nights, Magnus?”
“Nothing that would interest you.”
“I know you enjoy the attentions of a pretty kitchen maid, don’t you? But she’s the only one I’m aware of. I don’t believe for one moment that you’re interested in such a girl as anything more than a short and meaningless distraction.”
He hated that she knew so much about him. “It might be meaningless, but it’s not always short.”
He tensed when he felt her hand brush over his back, trailing across to his shoulders as she circled him. “You are very nearly a man. And a very fine man at that. A bit soft around the edges still, but I think the right handling would help sharpen your edge. You could become a fine weapon in many ways.”
Magnus stared at her, unclear about her meaning. But not all that unclear. “What are you suggesting?”