by Sam Argent
Anne walked to the throne steps and sat down next to Harris. She dug into her pockets and pulled out five gold coins. “Indecisiveness is not a trait welcomed in a ruler. Pick a side, and put down a wager.”
Harris closed his book. “Do you want to make a wager concerning our son’s love life?”
“I have no doubt that I’m right, so yes.”
“And I’m the one stuck betting against him?”
“If you had more faith in a positive outcome, you would have suggested it first,” Anne said. “This is your punishment for being a cynic.”
“We’ll see about that,” Harris said and grabbed the amulet hanging from his neck.
Minutes later, Frederick swiftly walked into the throne room. After the doors closed behind him, he looked around in confusion. “You said it was urgent.”
“It is,” Harris said. “What is your opinion of Sebastian, and do you think he is planning to endanger Turren’s life?”
Frederick looked at Captain Pembrost. “I thought he updated you about Sebastian’s recent activities.”
“But I still need your opinion for how I’m going to proceed. Turren will be devastated if we don’t act quickly,” King Harris said.
“I know there is little evidence supporting it, but I think the boy is acting on his own motives. I have the same feeling about Lord Orwell. If Lord Orwell was helping Trenton, then Trenton would be using the Heart of Light by now. I just don’t know what father or son is up to.”
“So a third opinion,” Queen Anne said. “Sebastian is working in Turren’s favor; Sebastian is working for his father and by that thread also for Trenton; or Sebastian has his own motives.”
Frederick frowned at Harris. “This is a bet, isn’t it?”
“And you’re even more indecisive than me,” Harris said. “I think you can put him down on Anne’s side.”
“You’re betting against Turren?”
“I prefer betting against Sebastian’s integrity,” Harris said.
“Turren will not see it the same way,” Frederick warned.
Queen Anne smiled. “I know my son. His pride would make him bet on Sebastian’s love for him.”
Frederick shook his head. “But Harris is at a disadvantage because our goal is to turn Sebastian to our side.”
“That boy is just as stubborn as Lord Orwell, so my money is safe,” Harris said.
“I want to believe in Sebastian, but I’m too close to the boy to see him clearly,” Captain Pembrost said.
“Are you voting against him because he lied to you?” Frederick asked.
“Him and Turren. I’m not saying Sebastian is evil, but we’re going to need more than that boy’s will to get to the bottom of this.”
“I’m working on that as we speak,” Anne said.
“Of course you are. You always cheat,” Harris said.
“It’s the only way I captured a stubborn man like you, and fighting fair won’t get Turren his love.”
“But what if Sebastian is guilty of conspiring with Turren’s enemies?” Captain Pembrost asked.
“Then we get him out of it before he’s in too deep,” Harris said.
“That’s your solution if things go badly?” Frederick asked.
“It’s the only solution that Turren won’t defy,” Harris said. “He’ll trust Sebastian no matter what he finds out, and his cooperation is the only way we can guarantee his safety.”
Anne poked her husband’s side. “Look at you becoming an expert in the ways of love.”
“I know firsthand how love can make people do irrational things.”
“Is that aimed at me or yourself?” Anne asked.
“Truth be told, both.” Harris sighed.
CHAPTER 23
FAINT LIGHT streamed past his eyelids, and Sebastian stretched out his arms. One arm was blocked by a large object, and he suddenly remembered the night before. Sebastian stopped moving and tried to think. There was an arm tightly wound around his waist, and something hard pressing against his thigh.
“You are ready to go at all times of the day, aren’t you?” Sebastian whispered to the man at his back. Remembering the morning in the woods when he’d tried to escape out from under Turren’s arm, Sebastian slid as slowly as possible out from under Turren’s reach. He had a lot of bed to crawl across without waking the prince, so it felt like forever until his feet touched the floor.
Crawling, so Turren wouldn’t immediately see him if he suddenly woke, Sebastian gathered his clothes. He had to press his head on the floor to get his underwear and pants on, but the rest of his clothes were easier to maneuver in his position. Peeking at Turren one more time, Sebastian crawled to the door and turned the knob as quietly as he could. It didn’t squeak, and he opened it just as delicately. Turren didn’t stir, and Sebastian scooted out the small opening to run into the legs of Captain Pembrost. Ignoring the man, Sebastian gently closed the door behind him and stood.
“Good morning, Sir Orwell,” Captain Pembrost said.
“Good morning.” Sebastian turned in the direction of his room.
“Will you be staying for breakfast?” Captain Pembrost asked.
Sebastian rolled his eyes under his hood. “Stop being nosy.”
“I will when you’re truthful with me.”
“Would you leave the subject be if I told you I’m more honest with the prince?”
“That would mean Turren is being just as dishonest as you.”
“I didn’t tell you that so you could pester him with your nonsense too,” Sebastian said.
“Your protectiveness of the prince is a good sign.”
“I have better things to do.” Sebastian pushed past the captain.
“Breakfast with your father, who I’m sure doesn’t know you’re here.”
“An empty threat, because no matter how much you’re mad at me or Turren, you won’t betray him,” Sebastian said.
“Can I make the same assumption about you?” Pembrost asked.
“I’ll do what I have to in order to keep him alive,” Sebastian said as he walked away.
“YOU’RE LATE,” Lord Orwell said as Sebastian pulled out a chair at the large table. “Lord Piadas chose to wait for you before eating.”
Sebastian looked at his father’s half-eaten plate. “A sentiment I see you didn’t share.”
“You’re my son. I have no reason to impress you.”
“And I can’t fault a sane man for balking at an impossible feat,” Sebastian said.
“I wasn’t waiting just because of propriety, Sebastian. I would like to speak with you in private,” Lord Piadas said.
“About what?” Lord Orwell asked.
“It’s a sensitive subject, and Frederick wanted you to help him search Turren’s belongings today.”
Lord Orwell put his fork down and leaned toward him. “Lord Piadas, I have known you for a short amount of time, but you are still a guest of the king and queen, who have shown too much interest in my son. Why would I allow you to be alone with him?”
“What I want to discuss is not of a romantic nature, but a favor. Sebastian is old enough to make his own decisions.”
Sebastian knew he was being baited but took it anyway. “He does have a point, Father.”
Lord Orwell glared at him. “And I will not give you an excuse to disobey me.”
“If he makes an outrageous request, then I will be your ever-dutiful son.”
“Remember, defy me and we return home immediately,” Lord Orwell said.
“It is a simple matter,” Lord Piadas said.
“It better be,” Lord Orwell said.
INSTEAD OF a private room, Lord Piadas led Sebastian to the library. They were the only ones inside, and Lord Piadas had locked the doors placed wards on them.
“This doesn’t instill confidence, Lord Piadas,” Sebastian said.
“I have been told that you are a wizard of considerable power.”
Sebastian glared. “Frederick or Captain Pembrost has bee
n talkative.”
“The prince’s life is at stake, and silence isn’t helpful. I was also told that you performed a spell over the books,” Lord Piadas said as he pointed to the huge stacks.
“Definitely Frederick,” Sebastian said and sat down on one of the chairs. “What’s the favor?”
“Frederick believes your magic spoke to the books but your spell was interrupted.”
“Did Frederick say what interrupted it?”
Lord Piadas glanced at the locked doors. “He said your father’s magic broke it. It was too faint because your original spell had been used to form the second one, but he believed your father’s influenced it.”
“And that’s why you separated me from him. You’re hoping I do it again?”
“I was unaware of the rumors about you and the prince, but there must be something to them if Lord Orwell has forbidden you to see him,” Lord Piadas said.
“Not to mention I do love getting on my father’s nerves. You were counting on that too, correct?”
“You don’t appear the type of man who likes his life being controlled.” Lord Piadas took a chair and placed it beside Sebastian’s. “All I’m asking is for you to perform the same spell, and Frederick will remove all traces of it so your father won’t find out.”
“If that’s all you’re asking,” Sebastian said. “Fine, I’ll do it.”
Lord Piadas blinked. “You will?”
“Why not? My father is being unreasonable, and you’ve been so kind to me,” Sebastian said, hoping he sounded sincere. It was insulting that Lord Piadas thought he was that gullible, but if it gave Sebastian a chance to find that damned book, then he would take it.
“All right, let’s get started.” Lord Piadas stood and waited for Sebastian to join him. They walked to the stacks, and he hung back. “If you need space, I can stand over here.”
“That’s fine,” Sebastian said. He raised his hands and sent out his magic as he had done that night. The tables were eager to talk to him again, and even the books were excited. Sebastian tamped down their emotions to make them focus on what he needed. He reminded him of the book and they all became agitated. One book filled Sebastian’s mind with anger.
He took my page, it seethed. He stole it and ate it!
Sebastian frowned. That had to be the book they were looking for. What do you mean the page is gone? he thought to it.
Eaten by an ugly bug. I hope it dies. The books became excited again, and Sebastian couldn’t get any more from them.
Sebastian lowered his hands and called back his magic.
“Well, which one is it?” Lord Piadas asked.
“None of them,” Sebastian said quietly.
Lord Piadas frowned. “But Frederick was certain your magic would work. Please, try again,” he insisted.
“It’s not here and I’m wasting my time,” Sebastian said. He stalked past the lord, but Lord Piadas grabbed for his cloak. It slipped from his fingers, and Sebastian brushed off the touch in annoyance.
“But, Sir Orwell—”
“I know my power, Lord Piadas. We’re done here.” Sebastian went to the locked doors and forced his power to break the wards and locks. Surprising the two guards outside, Sebastian whisked by them and stopped by a window to control his anger. It would be too suspicious to confront his father right then, so Sebastian had to wait for a better chance.
“Save me from duplicitous men who use their own sons.” I’ll make him pay for this. Once calm and collected, Sebastian walked past guards holding amulets and probably getting orders from Captain Pembrost. No one tried to stop him, so Sebastian wasn’t forced to move anyone out of his way. The multiple strategies involving him were grating on his nerves. All I have to do is focus on what I can control.
As Sebastian turned down a hall, Earl Grenwish stepped out from a doorway with his lackeys. Sebastian rolled his eyes and sighed. “Of course.”
“Sir Orwell,” Earl Grenwish said. “I’m surprised to see you. I heard you were helping Lord Piadas and your father, unless that work is beneath you.”
“Many things are beneath me, including your baseless accusations.” Sebastian moved to the side, but the earl and his friends stepped in Sebastian’s way.
“People are saying that you may be sabotaging efforts to help the prince.”
“I swear, the more you speak, the dumber I become,” Sebastian said.
“And the longer I stay in your presence, the more I sense disloyalty,” Earl Grenwish shot back.
“If you have a problem with Sir Orwell, I suggest you take it up with me,” Prince Turren said from behind the three men.
Earl Grenwish and his friends quickly turned around and bowed. “Your Highness, I didn’t mean to offend you, but I believe Lord Orwell’s son is clouding your judgment.”
“If I want you to concern yourself with my problems, I am still capable of asking you even though you think differently,” Turren said, his tone cold.
“The stability of our kingdom—”
“Will never be your responsibility,” Turren said.
Sebastian’s eyebrow rose under his hood.
Earl Grenwish’s jaw stiffened, but he bowed and said good day to them.
“Your statement applies to me too,” Sebastian said when they were alone. “I’ll ask for your help if I desire it.”
“I respect your wishes, but that was an insult to me too,” Turren said. “I have no tolerance for that kind of stupidity. And usually neither do you. Why did you allow him to upset you?”
“I’m in a bad mood,” Sebastian said.
“And a talkative one. Captain Pembrost had a few choice words for me.”
“I’m sorry,” Sebastian said. “I did tell him more than I should have.”
“You still haven’t answered my question,” Turren said.
“Can we speak privately?”
“During the day while your father’s restriction still stands?”
“He can go fuck himself.”
Turren reached for Sebastian’s hand. Squeezing it, he smiled. “We can talk in one of the studies. I’ll show you the way.”
Sebastian stared straight ahead while they walked, but he didn’t let go of Turren’s hand. It helped settle his anger, and it was easy for him to ignore the stares of guards and servants. If he held it tightly, it was only to keep up with the prince’s pace. Turren led him to a plain door and pressed his thumb on it. The door creaked open, revealing a bright room filled with a wide view of the sky through large windows.
Turren shut the door behind Sebastian. “It’s keyed to my magic, and no one will come inside unless they believe my life is in danger. Pembrost hopes it will dissuade me from wandering off when I’m upset.”
“And yet you showed up at Harold’s,” Sebastian said. He pulled Turren close, capturing Turren’s mouth in a hard kiss. At first, Turren shared Sebastian’s intensity, but then he stepped back.
“That was a sweeter greeting than I expected after you snuck out of bed this morning. Why are you eager now?”
“I had a reason to keep up appearances,” Sebastian said.
“You can do that and say good-bye.” Turren nuzzled his nose against Sebastian’s hood. “Or good morning.”
“If you’re complaining, I can get rid of my frustration the old-fashioned way and walk it off,” Sebastian said as he dragged a nail down Turren’s chin.
Turren shook his head. “I won’t be distracted.” He turned his head and gently nibbled on Sebastian’s finger. “No more… running… off… without… warning.” He punctuated his last word with a bite.
“You’re becoming a little full of yourself, Your Highness. Ow!” Turren bit him harder.
“I’m making one request next to your many.”
“I don’t—” Sebastian was cut off by Turren sucking the finger into his mouth. It slipped out covered in saliva, and bright sapphire eyes stared at him.
“If you’re considerate to me, I’ll be very considerate to you.”
> Sebastian licked his lips. “I can be a little nice.”
“That’s all I ask for.” Turren smiled. He placed his hands on Sebastian’s hips and pushed him toward a wall. “And for you to undo your pants.”
“Your pants come off first.”
Turren’s eyebrow rose. “I think my experience should let me dictate how this will play out.”
“I’m not saying you don’t get to do what you want,” Sebastian said. “But as the inexperienced one, I want to see you play with that pretty cock of yours while you’re sucking me off.”
Turren leaned in close enough for their breaths to mingle but without their lips touching. “Don’t be surprised if I come to your room tonight with a gag.”
Sebastian pressed his thumb into Turren’s ribs where a pressure point lay, but didn’t use his full strength. “I’d like to see you try.”
Turren lunged for his lips, and Sebastian’s mouth was taken by tongue and teeth. In a sudden frenzy to feel each other, they peeled off each other’s clothes until Sebastian stood with his clothes and cloak dangling off half his body. Turren tugged harder on the cloth and forced the items lower, exposing Sebastian’s cock. Turren was in the same disarray, his shirt wide open and pants piled at his ankles. Turren moved closer and joined their hands just as their cocks touched. He moaned and crushed his body against Sebastian’s. Turren rubbed himself against Sebastian and breathed heavily into his ear. Moving faster, he tongued Sebastian’s neck. “Fucking you last night was the best thing I’ve ever felt. I didn’t think anything could feel that good. You were so warm, and fuck!” he cried out as their cocks slid together. Turren reached between them and held both their shafts, providing more traction.
“You perverted bastard!” Sebastian cried out, but he desperately moved his hips.
“That’s right, so fucking good,” Turren whispered. “So fucking good.” Seed from his cock spewed over his hand, and then Sebastian’s covered it too. Latching on to Sebastian’s gasping lips, Turren thrust against him as the last of his seed dripped down Sebastian’s cock. Stray strands of golden hair brushed Turren’s face. “I have you,” Turren whispered.