Radulf immediately noticed the change in Zenna's expression, a flicker of fear crossed her face.
"Tell her we're occupied," Radulf said firmly, directing his words to Pia without breaking eye contact with Zenna.
"We can't do that," Zenna interjected.
"And why not? It's the truth—we are busy. You can leave, Pia," Radulf instructed as his piercing gaze bore into Zenna.
Pia, sensing the intensity between them, gave a quick nod and hurried out to carry out the command.
"What if the Princess has something urgent to discuss with me?" Zenna pressed.
Radulf leaned closer. "If it's truly urgent, she'll find another time to address it. Right now, I'm busy—and my focus is on this conversation with you."
"I suppose our conversation has already ended," Zenna said curtly.
Radulf shook her head. "No, it hasn't." His sharp gaze held hers, a flicker of curiosity beneath the intensity. "How did you learn, Zenna? You weren't in the royal school. Did someone teach you in the palace?"
