by Jen L. Grey
He winces, but he quickly hides it. “Do not call me that. It is Prince Nicholas to you.”
I jerk back like he has slapped me. “But I’ve called you that since we were kids.”
“It was an error of judgment on my part.” He pauses. “You will call me Prince Nicholas from here on out.”
I don't understand what is going on. It is like he has changed in the time I have been kept in here.
At that, King Percy walks in. “Ariah, I think it’s best if you leave. My son has to get ready for his wedding day. Please, do not make a scene and further embarrass yourself.”
I ignore the king and follow Nick, who is walking toward the balcony area. Once again, the key is burning my skin, and my ears are ringing, but I can't let Nick walk away.
I grab his arm. “Nick, you said we were going to be together. You promised.”
He takes a deep breath, but his face doesn't change as he drags me out to the balcony in an attempt to give us privacy. The rain pours down all over us, but I don't notice it at all.
However, his father follows us out there. “What’s going on, son?”
“I was just coming out here where the staff can’t hear our quarrel.” He looks me in the eyes. “Ariah, I do not want you. I am marrying your sister and building a life with her.”
My mother’s warning replays in my head. She was right. Why didn’t I listen?
The king grabs me, and turns to Nick. “I warned you.” and pushes me off the balcony.
I reach out, grasping at something, anything, to catch me, but all I find is air.
This is it.
This is how I’m going to die.
Nick reaches over the balcony, watching me fall. “No!”
Chapter Twenty-Two
My powers kick in slow my descent. I'm not strong enough to ease my landing, not with the powder still covering me, but I'm hoping to reduce the impact. Maybe, instead of dying, I'll come out with just some broken bones.
A large rock sails past my head, making a splash in the rocky shallow waters where I should have landed. My descent slows even more, and I realize that, somehow, someone is helping me. I land on my back on the sandy shore.
Lydia appears over me. She looks around and her tone is soft. “Ariah, get over here right this second.”
She grabs my hand and pulls me behind a large tree, putting her fingers to her lips.
We stay like this for a long time, and my adrenaline is pumping. Why did the king try to kill me? I wasn't trying to cause problems. Why did Nick go back on his word?
Lydia grabs me again and pulls me a little farther away from where we were just standing. I am about to ask her what is going on, but she puts her hands over my mouth.
Voices echo and, soon, two of the king’s guards come into view. They head to where I would have fallen and look through the water. When I realize they are looking for my mangled body, I go numb.
After they search for my body, one guard speaks up. “The current must have gotten her. Thank goodness. I’m ready to get out of this storm and really didn't want to have to drag a dead body around anyways.”
The other one nods in agreement and turns to go back to the palace. After they are gone for a while, Lydia takes my hand and pulls me toward an unused palace entrance.
I allow myself to be led, trying to figure out what I am supposed to do now. I can't live here anymore. Lost in thought, I’m surprised to see a well-dressed man and woman in deep conversation under an overhang. When we get closer, I realize it is Sam and Hazel.
Hazel must have felt us because she turns in our direction.
Sam has an annoyed look on his face until he realizes it's me walking in his direction. He jogs over to me and inspects my cheek where the king slapped me. He takes in my tattered appearance and disheveled outfit.
He looks back at Hazel. “I still think you're crazy, but thank you for making me come.”
Lydia watches the interaction before speaking. “She needs help. The king tried to kill her, and he thinks she's dead.”
Sam wraps his arms around me and kisses my forehead. “I will help. Please, stay with her. I will be right back.”
He turns and rushes away like a man on a mission. Don't lose faith, dear Ariah. I will be here to guide you.”
Lydia steps toward me. “You feel numb now and will be devastated soon. Just know these trials will make you who you are intended to be.
She pulls me into a long embrace.
Someone approaches, and we break apart to see who it is.
A carriage stops in front of us with a guard driving it. I cringe at the sight but then note he is wearing Sam’s kingdom colors.
He bows. “Please, ma’am, get in the carriage immediately, per Prince Samuel’s orders.”
Lydia nods for me to get in, trusting the man. We climb into the carriage together, and she sits with me as Hazel stands outside on watch.
I’m shaking so hard my teeth are clattering. and she finds a blanket to wrap around me. A few minutes later, the door opens and Sam gets inside. He sees me shaking and looks at Lydia with concern.
“Her adrenaline is crashing, that's all.” She looks out the door. “Are you good to go?”
Sam nods. “Yes, we’ll leave now.”
Lydia gives me another quick hug before climbing out, leaving me alone with Sam. At that, the guard slaps the horse’s reins, and the carriage moves forward.
Our path is clear when we pass through the gates. As soon as we’re on the other side, we hear the wedding bells clang, even over the booming thunder.
The End
About the Author
Jen L. Grey is a new, indie author who focuses on YA fantasy and paranormal genres.
Jen lives in Tennessee with her husband, two daughters, and toy Australian Shephard. Before she started writing, she was an avid reader and enjoyed being involved in the indie community. Her love for books eventually led her to writing and running a blog with one of her close friends. For more information, please visit her website and sign up for her newsletter.
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Acknowledgments
As always, my loving husband and wonderful kids are the only reason I’ve been brave enough to write this story. Their support and encouragement means more to me than anything.
Next, I have to give a shout out to my girl, Kelley. You’re more than my PA. You’ve become my best friend. You keep me organized and are always there to listen to me or bounce ideas off of. You’re amazing, and I’d be lost without you.
All my stalkers, I appreciate your support and encouragement. You guys are my base, and I’m forever thankful for each and every one of you.
Kendra, we just met, but you are an awesome addition to my team. You are a rockstar, and I appreciate all your feedback and how you’re willing to help in any way possible.
To all my readers and supporters, thank you for taking a chance on me.
Also by Jen L. Grey
The Pearson Prophecy
Dawning Ascent
Enlightened Ascent
Reigning Ascent