More on this book
Community
Kindle Notes & Highlights
for those who need a break and a second glass of wine
There are only two reasons why the elves come to our world: war or wives. In either case, they come for death. They come today.
The Elf King’s face, ethereal, handsome, youthful, as hard as diamonds, is as handsome as it is terrifying. He is like a poisonous flower—stunning and deadly. This, I realize as his eyes flash an even brighter blue, is the face of death.
“You bastard.” I rip myself from his person once more. Damn his Fade. Damn the wedding. Damn men who think they can manipulate me down an aisle.
“The Knowing is when an elf identifies the true name of an object, creature, or person. A true name is sound given to the raw essence of what something is—something unique to every creature and thing. Elves perform the Knowing by sight, or touch, and our innate magic,” he says. “Once a true name is known, the elf can manipulate the creature or thing at will.”
“Good, I’ll take the horse. At least they’re silent.” I whinny to spite him and I think I see his eye twitch.
If I never think of love again it will be too soon. Everything Luke did because of “love” affirms every reason why I knew it was a bad idea to involve myself with him—with anyone. Love is a dangerous distraction from duty.
“If you’re always walking above people you risk walking on them, Eldas. And that’s how you make enemies.” “I won’t be lectured by a human who entered my world days ago. And certainly not by one who has never ruled a day in her life.” “Good,” I say. “Because I have no interest in lecturing a man who won’t listen.” I spin on my heel and start for the door again. Blessedly, he doesn’t follow. “You will respect me!” Eldas shouts. “Be someone worthy of respecting first!” I slam the door behind me.
“Your Grace, Her Majesty and…Her Majesty’s wolf.”
“This is a significant improvement over last time.” “Careful, Eldas, that sounds like approval.” “Well, I am a king, I must be discerning with my approval.” He adjusts his coat, smoothing out invisible wrinkles. A movement I’m beginning to associate with uncertainty. I almost find it endearing. A tired grin pulls at my lips. “Even with your wife?” “Especially with my wife.” His eyes meet mine. “Because none have greater responsibility, or power, than her. I am the most discerning with those that are the most capable.” “And that almost sounded like a compliment.” “Take it as you will.”
“To this world. To the next. To the people we meet between and the bonds we share.”
We smell of honey and taste of forgotten dreams. We move like desperation.
“I’m used to the cold.” He chuckles darkly. “Ice king, they’ve called me.” “Good thing you have a fire queen, then.” The words leave me before I can think through what exactly I’m saying. A flush rises to my cheeks. “Oh, and why is that a good thing?” He stands, lips quirking slightly. I don’t answer, tongue heavy and gummy in my mouth as Eldas approaches. “Will you keep me warm?”
“Everything. May tomorrow hold every possibility. And may we be bold and hungry enough to take them for our own.”
“My queen, ever the researcher.”
“My king,” I murmur in reply. “Eldas, my king.”
“For allowing me to feel not so alone. For showing me every magnificent side of you. For giving me something I did not deserve but will cherish forever—not just last night, but our entire time together until this moment.”
“Tell me, Luella, do you love me?” His voice takes on an almost begging note.
“Tell me now or I will wash my hands of you for good.” How can I make him understand? “Eldas, I—” “Yes or no, do you love me?” His voice raises a fraction. I watch as he shatters under my silence and hesitation.
Willow stares at me with bright red eyes, sniffling. “I thought… I had no idea you were leaving. Not like this… I would’ve… I would’ve…” I pull him in for a tight embrace, one he returns without hesitation.
“This is a mistake,” she finally says. “No, the line of queens is getting weaker. Lilian never intended for it to go on this long. We must—” “You leaving him is a mistake,” she interjects. Willow stares at his feet, clearly wishing he wasn’t here for this particular conversation. “He loves you, Luella.”
“Darling one…” She wraps an arm around my shoulders. “Every child must eventually leave. Sometimes, it is to a house down the street. Other times, it is to somewhere very far away. But if that child ends up where they belong, and are happy and loved…that’s all a parent wants.”
