453 453. His Response

Mauve watched Jael's expression turn a bit twisted but she didn't miss the flash of hurt. His expression quickly returned to neutral.

"No," he said. Just one word.

"Why not? I keep asking why but neither of you would tell…"

"Mauve, drop the subject. Even for you, that would be impossible."

She blinked, she didn't like his cold eyes. She knew Louis was away for a long time and from bits and pieces she had picked up they had been pretty close.

Shouldn't that be enough reason to forgive Louis? However, this was Jael she was dealing with. His pride was the worst thing about him.

"I don't want to…"

"Why not? Why do you care so much about someone you don't even know? My business with Louis is mine to deal with. You don't have to concern yourself with it."

Mauve's face fell immediately, she thought they were past this but he was still putting her at arm's length when it came to certain matters be it personal or otherwise.