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“Don’t come any closer,” Kyldare orders. “We’re here on the queen’s business.” The other man smiles, revealing straight, white teeth, and a single dimple on the right side of his mouth. It’s a compelling smile. But no one who saw it would believe he’s pleased. “I suppose it’s a good thing I don’t serve your queen.”
From here, I can see his profile—brutal lines, a wide jaw, and the kind of sensual beauty that must have women begging for a night in his bed.
Calysian rides a few feet ahead, his back straight, his hands loose on his own reins. His horse is entirely too big, just like the man himself. I don’t know him, I’m not stupid enough to trust him, but for now I’ll allow him to lead me closer to safety.
“I think you don’t want to remember. You’re blocking it yourself, because remembering will be painful. You’ll find yourself wondering how you ended up here alone, and where those so-called friends are.”
I don’t let myself think about Calysian, likely still chained to the tree. If a tiny pang of guilt slices through my newfound positivity, well…that’s no one’s business but mine. Perhaps this will teach him a lesson. Cross me at your own peril.
Madinia is clever, and she rides down alleys and hidden side streets. I catch sight of her occasionally as she moves toward the southern gate, breaking into a canter as soon as she makes it past the disinterested guards. Good. The sooner she is away from anyone who might keep her from me, the better.
It’s…confronting, learning that I am the threat, even if I have no memory of such a life.
“What are you doing?”
“Sleeping. You should try it.” The brute sprawls over most of the bed, forcing me to lay far too close to him or risk rolling off the edge of the mattress. Fine. He may as well be good for something. I wiggle my toes between his calves. He jolts. Curses. “You believe those blocks of ice will force me from this bed? You must be jesting.”
“This isn’t happening.” Calysian raises his head, giving me a slow smile filled with dark promise. “Oh, it’s happening.” The satisfaction in his eyes sets my teeth on edge and I shove at him again. His smile widens and he steps back, allowing me to pass. “You never should have let me taste you. Now I’ll stop at nothing to make you mine.” I let out a low groan. What was I thinking?
“Your gaze burns like a brand,” he growls, and I shiver. “Would you prefer if I looked away?” “No. Look your fill, sweetheart. I’ll see you soon enough.” My body is suddenly hot, needy. His eyes meet mine across the distance. “You need relief. Ask me to give it to you.” “Calysian…” “I’ll make you feel good, Madinia. I want you. You want me back. That’s all that matters. Tell me you want me.”
“My father knew. He knew that the corrupt were just hybrids, living their lives. But he enjoyed being so close to the throne, would never give it up. When he learned I was a hybrid—and that my mother must have been one too…he looked at me as if I had betrayed him.” Calysian cups my face, tilting my head until his dark eyes meet mine. “You’re allowed to hate him. And to love him. You’re allowed to choose not to forgive him.”
Calysian is gone. This is Calpharos. My lungs turn to stone. I swore I wouldn’t let this happen. I promised myself I would keep him here.
It’s a strange feeling—knowing we can trust each other with our lives, but not with information.
