FOREVER KNIGHTS: #7 King of Assassins

Warlock Grove, Nightway

ALAZAR

“Charles is different than anyone I’ve ever known.” Riaura confided. Head resting in Alazareth’s cross-legged lap.

Oh, he sure is. Alazareth thought darkly.

“And strangely, mother is supportive of his courting.”

Because Radix commands her too. But he was fully aware Riaura wouldn’t listen if he tried to tell her. So he settled on trying to enjoy the moment despite the irritating turn of subject.

“Of course, she is.” He stared down at her. Rubbing her cheek with his thumb. Forcing his tone unemotional.

Nevertheless, she gave him a scathing look. “You can be quite derisive, Alazar.”

Apparently, she knows me too well.

“Indeed.” He admitted. Silencing.

“He asked if he could speak to me tonight. And drew me aside.” She gloated.

Trying to make me jealous. He was aware. So, why is it working?

Because I can’t stand him.

“Oh?” Alazar arched an inquiring brow.

“He took my hand. Told me I was lovely.”

“You’re a mite more than lovely, Ri.” He said. Making her flush at the nickname he’d taken to calling her since they’d become lovers. “What did you say?” He queried.

“You’d be quite proud of me.” She turned up her chin haughtily. “I sounded every bit the Lady.”

A lady? I would be impressed.

“You?” He feigned a shocked expression. “Where has my Riaura gone?”

“I said,” She glowered before quoting dramatically. “Your kindness touches my heart. I’m awestruck you think so.” She quoted grandly.

Does sound very ladylike.

“And?”

“He asked whatever did I mean. I told him I was complimented he thought so.”

Implying I don’t think so?

“Ouch.” Alazareth winced.

“Well you’ve told me many times a woman shouldn’t confuse loving with being in love.”

“That doesn’t mean I don’t care for you Ri.” He murmured. Voice defensive even to his ears.

She gnawed her cheek and he sensed she was unsure what to say. “Are you ever proud of me?” She frowned up at him.

“Very often.” He brushed her bangs from her brow and rested his forearms against her cheeks. Linking his fingers over her breast, he sighed. “So, tell me what he said.”

I shouldn’t be so easily wounded by what she says to her supposed fiancé.

“Well, he cleared his throat and told me I’m willful.” She laughed.

Not as courteous in return, apparently.

“You are.” He admitted. “Because you are strong. It will benefit you one day, mark my words.”

“And that I sometimes dress strange and present in a manner which some might consider off-putting. But that he finds me simply lovely anyway.”

You’re far more then lovely. He’s downplaying her fine features. And attempting to shame her for being so wild.

I like that she’s half-wild. A woman to dance barefoot in leaves.

“And what did you think of him saying so?” Alazareth questioned as he ran his fingers through the hair aside one of her cheeks, watching the shine of it falling through her fingers.

“I was a little hurt.” She swallowed.

As he’d hoped you would be. But saying so wouldn’t help the situation. You shouldn’t let what he says harm you. There’s nothing wrong with you. Your only fault is in refusing to hear the reality of his character.

“So, I focused on the compliment. Afterall, he was only trying to be kind.”

He most certainly was not.

“Was he?”

“I’m sure he was.” She said as she rocked her knees side to side thoughtfully. Gnawing her lip.

“And what if he wasn’t?”

“Are you implying Charles is manipulative or, or-malicious?”

So far. I’ll tell you if you let me.

“I’m asking if you’ve considered the possibility? As queen you’ll have to consider all things with everyone you meet. Assess their intentions.”

“What are your intentions?” She batted her lashes up at him and gave a secretive smile.

She’s changing the subject. But he recognized her flirtation. The softening of her features and knew he liked this direction then the fight their conversation had been veering toward. Even though it is a necessary conversation.

He surrendered. “The worst kind.” He growled, leaning over her. “I’ve total and utter designs on your body.”

“Do you?” She teased. “Show me then.” She quirked an inviting brow as she twisted onto all fours to face him.

He growled low in his throat. Curling a finger to beckon her closer. Taking in the subtle scent of roses as she drew closer.