“Tell me what?”
Her father cleared his throat drawing himself up right trying to look stern but only succeeding in looking like a deer caught in the cross hairs. “Lilly. You’re almost to the age of adulthood and your mother and I agree you haven’t applied yourself to becoming a proper Lady of nobility.”
“Father..” Lilly began but he cut her off with a look.
“We cannot allow the irresponsible and childish way you conduct yourself anymore. You are coming of age, where you will be expected to marry.” Jaden noticed Lilly’s neck twitched as her shoulders squared. “We asked Jaden to come and escort you to Olestra to be tutored in proper etiquette and decorum. Also you will attend the Aluran ball.”
Lilly’s glare turned to him. He met her gaze with unshaken calm as her mother continued. “There you will meet other Lords and Ladies and perhaps even find a suitable candidate for a husband.” Bastian coughed at the last part.
Lilly pushed out her chair roughly to stand. “I won’t go! I don‘t want to get married or learn to become a Lady. I like the way I am!”
“Lilly!” Sabine said in a tone that made her flinch. “You will do as your father and I wish.”
Her blue eyes regarded Jaden for a moment and there was an instant that he thought she was going to beg him not to take her, but then she rushed out of the room. He heard her heavy footfalls going up the steps.
Bastian drank down another glass of wine and sighed. “I’m sorry Jaden. She’s been very hot tempered lately whenever anyone mentions marriage.”
“I honestly don’t understand that girl.” Sabine said despondently.
