#Chapter 40 Lines and Distance

Bianca steps lightly along the corridor. The time is calculated, as is the location. Jasper often uses this hallway on his way from his meetings with his mother. The route is quiet, lightly trafficked, and easy to slip away from without drawing attention. She hears him before she sees him. His footsteps are unhurried, his voice low as he finishes a passing conversation with a guard. By the time he rounds the corner, Bianca is already looking up like she’s just now noticed him. “Oh,” she says, smiling. “Jasper. What a surprise.” He raises an eyebrow, not quite stopping. “Bianca. How are you today?” “Okay,” she answers smoothly. “I was on my way to the library to look up something for Luna training. Boring, really.” She tilts her head. “You seem like you’re in a hurry.” “Royal duty waits for no one.” She laughs softly. “Have you seen much of Ember lately?” That makes him pause. “A few times,” he says. “Why?” Bianca shrugs. “She’s changed since I last saw her regularly.