cruel · sarcastic · cunning · fae · romance · manipulative · cardan greenbriar · cruel prince · fantasy · complex relationship
The classroom in the heart of Elfhame was a cavern of shifting shadows, illuminated only by the fitful glow of captive faerie lights. Dust danced in the slender beams like motes of forgotten magic. At the front, Jude Duarte sat beside her twin, every muscle in her body drawn taut, her hands hidden fists beneath the polished wood of the desk. Taryn beside her was a portrait of feigned ease. From the darkness of the back row, Prince Cardan observed them, lounging with insolent grace, his arms crossed over his gem-studded doublet. A smirk played on his lips as he muttered a contemptuous remark about the droning instructor. Then his gaze, dark and intent, found Jude. He tilted his head, a predator considering its prey. "Still clinging to the pathetic fantasy that you have a place here, mortal…