He said nothing but cupped her cheek and drew her into a gentle kiss. Marisol willingly kissed him back, enjoying the familiar warmth that their closeness afforded, but pulled away a moment later. Her breathing a little heavier, she studied him, confused. It had been a long time since Marius had kissed her in private, and she sensed that there was something behind the kiss that she hadn't understood. She searched his eyes for an answer, but for once, she was unable to get a grasp on what he was feeling.

"Marius?" she repeated uncertainly.

"It's nothing. Go ahead."

Marisol frowned but, realizing that she wasn't going to get a proper response, left the room. Lady Rayla and several maids were waiting for her in her own private chambers to help her get ready. She submitted to their fussing without comment, allowing them to bathe her body and hair and help her to dress. The cool silk of her royal gown made her shiver as it slipped into place against her body. This was one of the last times she would ever wear this gown; now that Thalia was becoming queen, she and Marius would rarely appear in public as royalty. Both of them had decided to step back as much as possible and allow Thalia and Apollo to flourish, which made her wonder if staying at the palace was such a good idea. But where else could she go? Without thinking about it, she sighed.