She did know that, but she was breaking under the strain of it all. They were so close to each other, but divided by more than a secret door. Whatever frustration and pain she felt over his refusal, she masked it behind the brilliant smile she gave her daughter when Cassana's eyes latched onto them.

She trailed behind them, collecting more seashells as Cassana played with Robb. The tide was beginning to sweep closer to where the castle was, threatening to wash away her daughter's work. "Do you want to help me make a necklace to give to Robb, sweetling? We could use your seashell?"

They didn't have long to play. Even now, she was bracing herself, waiting to hear the trumpets heralding Renly's return.