He never even broke stride as he cleared the threshold and made his way toward the stables.
Denny was just bringing Max around when Sebastian reached them.
Swinging up into the saddle, he mumbled a thank you and turned Max toward Wentworth Park. His earpiece would come in handy, but he wasn’t going to risk Colton’s safety to take time and go back for it.
Nearly ten minutes later Sebastian topped the biggest hill—a mile and a half behind the castle—and found the disobedient brat. “Bloody hell.” Sebastian closed his eyes for a second and tried to calm his racing heart. Colton was almost at Wentworth Park. Anything could’ve happened to the young man this far out.
Standing on the flat section of land that bordered the wood on the left, Colton hammered a stake into the ground and tied a white piece of cloth around it. He glanced up, spotting Sebastian. Completely ignoring him and without even a flicker of hesitation, Colton mounted Apollo, who had been grazing nearby.
This was the second time within the hour Colton had dismissed him, and Sebastian was beginning to think the incident outside the breakfast room wasn’t a fluke. “Your Highness!”
As Sebastian drew to a halt, Colton turned toward him with a look of annoyance on his handsome face.
“What do you think you’re doing?”
“It’s nothing for you to be concerned about. I’m not leaving the grounds.” Colton heeled Apollo and began walking away. Something above his ear sparkled in the sunlight.
“Your safety is my—” Sebastian frowned. What was—? “Is that my earpiece?” He urged Max into stride next to Colton.
One of Colton’s ebony brows rose in a perfect imitation of his sire. “You don’t have to shout. I’m right beside you.”
The superior expression irked Sebastian even further. Not only was Colton planning high-risk ventures and disobeying direct orders when it came to his safety, but now he was stealing? Who the hell was this nearly hostile man, and what had he done with the charming, smiling kid who hung on Sebastian’s every word?
Taking a deep breath, Sebastian lowered his voice. “Answer my question.”
“I need it to speak with Jeffers. We’re taking measurements. Now what do you want, my lord?”
Sebastian gritted his teeth, leaned over in the saddle and grabbed Apollo’s bridle, making Colton pull back on the reins. “I’m out here because you disobeyed me.” Once Apollo halted, Sebastian stopped Max. “Did the front door guard or did he not tell you I said no one was allowed out without an escort? And why did you think it was acceptable to filch my earpiece from my office?”
Colton sighed and rolled his eyes upward. “He did, but since Jeffers can see me…” he pointed to the com-con, “…and hear me, it doesn’t signify. And I didn’t steal your earpiece. I couldn’t find my father’s or Cony’s, and I didn’t think you were going to use yours today because you’ve been at the castle for over an hour now without retrieving it.” Colton swatted at Sebastian’s hand, making him release the bridle. “Now if you’re finished—”
“I am not finished. Do you have any idea how dangerous it is for you to be out here by yourself?”
Colton opened his mouth to speak, but Sebastian cut him off.
“Do not give me that nonsense about Jeffers knowing where you are. No one could get to you in time to help you if you were in danger. You’ll turn that horse around right now and head back to the castle.”
“I’m not a child, and I don’t need—”
“Now!” Sebastian’s stomach rolled, and his ears rang. He hadn’t felt this way since Aiden had been kidnapped two years ago. If the feeling was more intense this time, it could only be because he was now aware of their enemies.
Colton gaped at him for about two seconds before glaring. “Who do you think you’re talking to?”
“Don’t mess with me. I’m in charge of your safety, and your parents will stand behind me on this. Get your ars— self back to the castle immediately.”
Screwing his face up in anger, Colton turned Apollo, clucked his tongue and leaned over the horse’s neck.
The stallion took off in a canter toward home.
Sebastian followed at a gallop until he caught up to Colton. He could be angry all he wanted as long as he listened.
When the horses were neck and neck, Sebastian slowed Max to match Apollo’s gait. The wind whipped through his hair and over his face. Despite his mood, it actually felt great. The weather was beautiful for riding, and if he didn’t have things to do, he’d love to stay out here all day.
Instead of detouring to the gate, Colton urged Apollo faster toward the fence. The way his trousers pulled tight over his arse as he raised in his stirrups to take the jump was quite fetching. As one, horse and rider cleared the obstacle with such grace it made the feat look effortless.
Pulling himself out of his musing, Sebastian put his heels to Max and sailed over a few seconds after Colton.
Colton could lose him if he wanted—Sebastian didn’t delude himself about which of them was the better rider—but Colton kept pace with him. It was a pleasure to watch Colton ride. He had a magnificent seat and would’ve made a hell of a jockey if he wasn’t so bloody big. Then again, his wide shoulders and lean hips were quite lovely. Much nicer to look at than a jockey’s juvenile physique.
That definitely wasn’t the form of a child. And the way he controlled his mount with such confidence… Sebastian’s cock perked up. He wanted to groan. This attraction he’d been fighting since Colton turned sixteen could amount to nothing. It was clearly time to find a new paramour. And that man could not be Colton Townsend.
As they slowed to a walk, Sebastian got his libido under control. He still needed to talk to Colton about locating a place for his stables, but Sebastian would find some time tomorrow to fit it in.
Denny jogged out of the stables.
Colton swung his leg over and dropped to the ground, handing the boy his reins. “Thank you, Denny.”
“My pleasure, Your Highness.”
Dismounting, Sebastian gave Denny his reins. “Thank you, Denny.” Without waiting for a response, he followed. “Colton.”
Colton stopped but did not turn.
“I want your word you will not go riding again without a guard.”
With a dip of his head, Colton continued toward the castle.
A twitch started at the corner of Sebastian’s right eye. “Turn around,” he gritted out between clenched teeth. He was damned sick of this easy dismissal and near hostility.
With his hands balled into fists by his side, Colton swung to face him. Red tinged his cheeks. He stepped right up to Sebastian, stopping less than a foot away until they were eye to eye. When had he gotten so tall?
“What?” Colton demanded.
No one had challenged Sebastian in a long, long time. The action should inspire disdain, but it didn’t. Sebastian’s erection returned full force despite his fury. Before he’d given it thought, he had Colton by the face.
Prince Pain-in-the-Arse flinched but didn’t back down. His sherry eyes blazed as his hands came up between them, seizing Sebastian’s lapels.
Galaxy help me. Slamming his mouth down across Colton’s pinched lips, Sebastian swept inside with his tongue.
The sweet taste of cinnamon buns and tea competed with a taste uniquely Colton. Mmm… He was so—not responding. It shouted inexperience and brought Sebastian to his senses, making him realize who he was mauling. He removed his hands from each side of Colton’s face and began to step away.
Gripping his morning coat tighter, Colton jerked Sebastian forward and mashed their lips back together.
Sebastian froze.
Colton tentatively touched the tip of his tongue to Sebastian’s lips. His hands unwound from the fabric and slid over Sebastian’s shoulders, then back to Sebastian’s chest.
The uncertainty made Sebastian smile. He opened his mouth and kissed back, letting his tongue tangle with Colton’s. Sebastian’s pulse pounded in his ears, dr
owning out everything but the sensual man in his arms. Taking Colton’s hands, he placed them around his neck. He slid his arms around the nice slim waist, pulling them closer together until a nice, thick, hard cock pressed into his hip.
Shoving him, Colton stepped back so quickly he stumbled and nearly landed on his arse.
Bugger. Sebastian dropped his head into his hand, trying to get a grip on himself. He’d lost his bloody mind.
“Here.” Colton jerked the earpiece out of his ear, flung it at Sebastian and took off in a dead run toward the front of the castle.
Sebastian juggled the earpiece for several seconds before he caught it. “Colton, wait.”
Colton disappeared around the corner of the gothic mansion.
Bloody hell and imploding planets. What had he done? Glancing back to make certain no one had seen the embrace, Sebastian put the communication device in his ear. Thankfully Jeffers was silent. Had he not seen the kiss? Not likely, but Sebastian could hope.
He’d really messed up. Galaxy, his stomach hurt. Shame swamped him. One thing was for certain, he was going to have to assign someone else to guard Colton. Colton and his new guard could find several locations for Colton’s stables, and Sebastian would ride out on his own and approve them. Yes, that would work.
Chapter Three
“Your Majesty, Lord Wentworth is—”
“I see, Jeffers. Isn’t it wonderful?” Steven beamed at the monitor displaying the front of the castle. Wentworth was kissing Colton. They were perfect for each other, but Steven had never dreamed Sebastian returned Colton’s feelings until today. Steven doubted Sebastian even realized what he felt yet, but when Sebastian had complained about Colton ignoring him, Steven had known. It was going to be up to him to push them together and make Sebastian open his eyes. Kissing was a great start. Just look how tenderly Sebastian held Colton’s face now. Resting his chin on his hand, Steven sighed.
“I beg your pardon, Your Majesty. Are you saying you do not want anyone to stop them?”
“I do not. From now on let them be. Treat them as you would Aiden and Nate or Raleigh and me. Oh, and this must stay our secret. Where’s Raleigh?”
“Still in his meeting, Your Majesty.”
“Good, good. Leave him be, Jeffers. That will be all.”
Oh no, Wentworth broke the kiss before it really got started. Steven slumped back in his desk chair.
Colton grabbed Sebastian by the lapels and dragged him forward, planting a kiss right on his lips.
Yes! Steven shot forward again.
All Colton’s longing came out in the embrace. It was wild and passionate. Wentworth wrapped his arms around Colton’s waist.
Steven smiled so big his cheeks hurt and pumped his fist in the air. He couldn’t have planned this better. Sebastian would take care of Colton and cherish him. He’d handle Colton’s stubbornness without breaking his spirit. And Colton had been in love with Sebastian since the day he’d started working as head of security. It was quite unheard of for a titled gentleman to work, but with Wentworth’s military record and a sterling recommendation from Admiral Jenkins, Steven had hired him. He’d never regretted the decision. The young man had needed something to do after the death of his husband. Over the years, it had become apparent the marriage had not been a happy one. And Wentworth deserved to be happy. Steven had no doubts whatsoever that his son would bring joy into the viscount’s life.
Colton shoved Sebastian away and jogged toward the castle. The boy’s impetuousness seemed to have diminished in recent years. He was much more responsible. Blast it all.
“Never fear, son. I’m going to help you.” If anyone understood Colton’s infatuation, it was Steven. He’d been the same way when he’d noticed Raleigh for the first time and had stopped at nothing until Raleigh was his. The infatuation hadn’t let up yet. Raleigh was even more appealing with age and familiarity.
Humming, Steven pulled up the camera in Wentworth’s office. Sebastian wasn’t there yet, but Steven could judge Wentworth’s response to that kiss better when he appeared.
Someone cleared their throat, jerking Steven out of his thoughts and making his heart stutter.
Raleigh’s voice preceded him into the study. “Disregard, Jeffers, I’ve found him.”
Steven tried to glare but doubted he was successful. There was no one he wanted to see more at the moment. “Don’t sneak up on me, Raleigh. What’re you doing lurking around corners?”
Cocking his head to the side, Raleigh squinted and pulled the door closed behind him. “Trying to figure out what you’re up to.” Arching a brow, he started around the desk.
Steven leaned back in his chair and crossed his hands over his stomach. Sometimes it was like Raleigh could read his mind. Steven smiled at his consort. “I was just thinking about you actually.”
“I’m not buying it. You were humming. You only hum when you’re excelling at something, or when you’re pleased with yourself. Since I don’t recall anything going on in the House of Lords, it must be something personal.”
“It was. I told you I was thinking about you and the night we met. Other than that I was merely looking over my correspondence.” He glanced back at the monitor for a split second and nearly flinched. He was about to get caught spying on the soon-to-be couple. “Close the screen, Jeffers, and put the keyboard away.”
“Ah-ha.” Raleigh hurried around the desk. Bloody hell. “You can never keep eye contact when you lie.”
He couldn’t? Steven frowned. He was going to have to work on that then. He glanced at the screen again. On the camera, Sebastian had just sat in his desk chair. Hurry, Jeffers.
By the time, Raleigh made it to the other side there was nothing on the screen. It folded into the desk, and the halo keyboard vanished. “Steven…”
Steven grinned up at him. “Yes, dearest?”
“What have you done?”
“I told you, I haven’t done anything.”
“Jeffers, bring the screen back up immediately.”
“Raleigh, you’re paranoid.” Steven scooted back and pulled Raleigh into his lap. Raleigh’s round behind nestled perfectly against Steven’s groin. It was enough to bring the memory of this morning back to him. His and Raleigh’s encounter had been nice before Colton had barged in with his plans for a racing stud. Sometimes having children was a nuisance. Even more of a reason to see them all happily settled.
The screen came back out of the desk as Steven wrapped his arms around Raleigh’s waist. The smell of chocolate and mint flooded Steven’s senses. Raleigh’s skin appeared so smooth and biteable beneath his ear. He traced his tongue up the side of Raleigh’s neck and found Raleigh’s earlobe with his lips.
Raleigh shivered but didn’t detour from his study of the screen. The man was like a dog with a bone when he’d made up his mind. He was right in this instance. Steven was matchmaking, but still the legendary persistence was annoying. Actually, Raleigh’s penchant for always being right was just as vexing. Not that he wanted Raleigh to be anywhere else, but Steven couldn’t get away with anything when he was around.
The monitor showed Sebastian leaning back in his chair with his hands over his face. The view changed abruptly to the boy’s corridor. Trouble and Tarren were racing down the hall. What were they doing? They skidded to a halt beside Colton’s door. The next camera shot showed Colton walking up the stairs toward the hall that Trouble and Tarren had just sped down.
Raleigh pointed at the screen. “What is this? It’s not correspondence.”
“I was corresponding with Jeffers about camera angles.”
Turning his head, Raleigh narrowed his eyes at Steven.
“What?”
“You’re trying to tell me you were writing letters to Jeffers?”
If he told Raleigh what he was up to, Raleigh would object and then forbid him to continue. “I meant I was conversing with him.”
Raleigh rolled his eyes upward. “If there was any justice in the world, you’d look like a mad sci
entist rather than a fallen angel.”
Raleigh thought he looked like an angel? Steven’s cock began to harden. “I’m not doing anything. I was making certain the security system is running smoothly.”
“One does not refer to that as correspondence.” Raleigh’s blasted brow arched.
Good galaxy, Steven’s skin prickled under the scrutiny. “One does when one—”
Raleigh’s other brow joined the first one.
“Stop it. I’m innocent, I tell you. I was in here daydreaming about you.” Steven pulled him close until Raleigh’s back rested against his chest. Breathing softly in Raleigh’s ear, Steven whispered, “Be nice to me, Cony.”
Raleigh sagged into his embrace, and his weight pressed against Steven’s cock.
Gads, that felt nice. A tingle raced through Steven, traveling from his neck down to his toes. “How’d your meeting go?”
“It ran over.”
“So I see. What do you have planned now? You don’t have enough time to make it to your appointment at the haberdashers.” He kissed Raleigh’s neck.
“I love that you keep track of my appointments as well as your own.” Raleigh closed his eyes and dropped his head onto Steven’s shoulder.
A chuckle escaped Steven. He’d learned a long time ago that Raleigh was a romantic whether he wanted to believe it or not. He kissed Raleigh’s cheek. “Don’t you always know where I am?”
“Yes. Or at least where you should be and what you should be doing.”
Steven rolled his eyes, thankful his consort couldn’t see it. That was not a line of thinking he wanted Raleigh following. It would lead right back to why he was watching Colton and Sebastian. “Since you know where I am, and I know where you are, what do you have planned now?”
“I don’t have anything until Jeremy’s fencing lesson this afternoon.”
“I wonder what Trouble’s argument to get out of the lesson will be this time.”
“Mmmm…” Raleigh grinned and tilted his head, giving his husband better access. “I don’t know. Last time he told me he preferred a knife to a sword, and it was much better because no one expected it.”
My Regelence Rake Page 3