“I’m not worried. He’s a piece of my plans, and those plans have only just begun.”
Head tilted, there’s a question in his eyes.
“In due time, but not now, not here,” I tell him.
When I turn to face the stairs and continue down, Ryker takes my hand, stopping me.
“You trust me, don’t you?”
Seeing the concern in his eyes creates a knot of guilt in my stomach.
“Of course, I do, but we have eyes on us at all times.” Soldiers pass at the bottom of the stairs, noticing the tension in our private conversation. “Certain conversations are meant for more private locations, don’t you agree?”
He acknowledges the soldiers, his gaze looking over my shoulder.
“Yes, I do. We still have a lot to discuss. I admit I’m anxious to know what thoughts are running through your gorgeous head and what feelings you have in your heart.”
Putting my hands in his, I bring one of them to my mouth, kissing his palm. The familiar act of affection softens his gaze and the tight lines around his mouth.
“I want to share both with you, but it’s not the right time or place.”
“You’re right. I admit, I’m still on edge. Having you home with me will help alleviate those feelings.”
Coming forward, I place my hands on his chest as he holds me in his arms, looking down at me like I’m a lifeline to his sinking ship.
“I love you. That won’t change when I return home to Anauka.”
His shoulders lower as he sighs. “You’ve come to know me well.”
“I believe so. You’re one of the best men I know. I’m blessed to have your love.”
The touch of his hands on my back become firmer as he hugs me.
“The love I have for you is like nothing I’ve ever felt.” Placing his hand under my chin, he brings my gaze to his. “The sensation is intoxicating. I never want it to end.”
The passion he possesses emanates off him. My body soaks it in like an addictive aroma. The love in his dark eyes seeps into my heart, branding it as his. Lost in his gaze, the world around me is a haze, my only feeling is the very sensation he described—powerful, intoxicating, addictive. It’s the magnetizing pull between us neither of us can deny.
“I couldn’t live my life without you, having experienced how much better it is with you in it.”
My back presses against the railing as his body pins me to it. His mouth claims mine, our kiss so intense, I’m dizzy with lust. His hands are everywhere I want them to be, squeezing my ass, another on my breast. He moans into my mouth when I rub his swelling cock beneath his pants. A throat clears at the bottom of the stairs, then again before either of us fully comprehend the sound and withdraw from our intimacy.
Everett and Kellan are at the bottom of the steps, staring up at us with expressions of amusement. My cheeks flush with heat. Ryker and I look at one another. Just like me, his breathing is elevated, his cheeks full of color.
“We’re leaving after breakfast,” he tells Everett. “Ensure nothing is on my calendar today or tomorrow. I’ll be spending time with my fiancée.”
“Will do, my King. Breakfast will be served momentarily.”
“Thank you.”
Everett ushers Kellan to follow him, leaving us alone on the stairs.
“My need for you is dangerous. I’m oblivious to what’s around us when we’re in the heat of the moment.”
“I’m the same,” I admit. Pulling on his silky, blue shirt, I bring his lips to mine. “I forget the world exists when you kiss me.”
“What else do you feel?”
His fingers tease the waistband of my pants.
“So much heat,” I whisper. “Everything tingles with need. My breasts ache to be sucked, my clit swells with desire, and I get wet wanting to feel you.”
His lips leave a trail of moisture along my ear and neck. Tilting my head, I indulge in the pleasure as his hand reaches between my legs, caressing me.
“My cock is swollen and aching to be inside you. The way it feels to lay with you is more invigorating than the most exciting race I’ve ever won. All I can think about right now is how much I want to thrust inside your exquisite pussy and watch the pleasure on your beautiful face.”
Between his words and his touch, my body melts in his arms. He holds me up, rubbing my clit just right as his lips place heated kisses all over my skin.
“You’re going to ruin me. We’re on the stairs for everyone to see, and I don’t care. What kind of Queen does that make me?”
“My Queen.”
My body feels like liquid in his hands. My orgasm is building, but my release is prevented by my nervous tension. I’m afraid to open my eyes, afraid to discover we have an audience. As if he senses my hesitation, he slows his massaging on my clit.
“We’ll save this for later.”
I open my eyes and am relieved there isn’t an audience. Meeting his lascivious gaze, I kiss him, biting his lip and releasing it between my teeth.
“Believe me, I want you just as much as you want me, but it’s best we don’t keep everyone waiting.”
“With how much I want you, I’d kick everyone out and have you on the table.”
The memory of being tied to the table flashes through my mind. Ryker must see the change in my expression. His face tightens with worry, his brows knitting as his gaze darkens.
“What did he do to you?”
The anger and fear in his eyes are painful to see.
“He forced my clothes off and tied me down to the table. He used a riding crop to beat me and let everyone watch. He assaulted me before and after the beating.”
Ryker’s palm hits the railing, and the entire balustrade vibrates in response.
“If I’d known, I would’ve drawn out his torture. What else did he do to you?”
Nostrils flared, his temper stiffens his muscles, his face red and tight with anger.
“Now’s not the time. Everyone is waiting for us to join them for breakfast.”
“I’m not hungry.” His hand hits the railing again. “I should’ve been here sooner. It’s my fault you had to endure his abuse.”
Touching his shoulder unleashes his pent-up emotions. Enclosing me in his arms, he holds me tight to his chest as his breathing elevates, his body shaking.
“I’m sorry, Fiora. I should’ve come sooner.”
“You came as soon as you could.”
He kisses my head, trying to comfort me while his own body trembles.
“I wasted time planning and preparing. I should’ve launched an attack the day he took you from me.”
“Please don’t carry guilt for what has passed. You’re here now, giving me the love and affection I need. I know you came as soon as you could. I will never have anger toward you for arriving when you did.” I face him, making him look at me. Moisture has collected in his reddened eyes, matching my own developing tears. “You know as well as I do, had you launched an attack right away, he would’ve hurt me far worse to stop you.”
Putting his lips to my forehead, he holds them there, his warm kiss soothing.
“I wanted to burn his world to the ground, but it’s true, I knew he’d use you against me, so I pretended to give him what he wanted.”
Stroking his cheek, I pull him in for a kiss.
“And that is why I’m alive now with only ugly memories to recover from.”
Putting his head to mine, he caresses along my arms and settles his hands on my face.
“Share them with me. I don’t want you holding on to those memories alone.”
“They’re better left forgotten and replaced with new, better memories.”
With his arms around me, he rubs my back as he hugs me.
“Your strength astounds me. One of the many reasons I love you.”
Rubbing his sides, I feel the tension in his muscles release.
“Are you ready to have our farewell breakfast?”
“Only if you are.”
“Yes.”
With his hand on my back, we walk together into the grand dining hall. The arms men quiet their chatter and stand, awaiting Ryker and me to take our seats. When we do, the arms men follow. As I stand with my glass raised, Richter quiets the crowd.
“Today, King Ryker and I will depart for the Free territory. While away, I’m leaving Iowan in the hands of a trusted and capable man, my right hand, Richter Delvore. Soon, I will return to lead Iowan into a new era of peace and prosperity. Until my return, Iowan will remain under the protection of my crown. Your wellbeing is as important to me as the people of Anauka. Trade and business will continue, and while I am away, I will be diligently working to restore the welfare of this noble territory. Place your trust in me, men, and you will live to see our achievements.”
Richter stands, raising his glass to me. “You have our loyalty, Queen Fiora.”
The Iowan arms men follow suit, all standing and either raising their glasses or tapping their chests with an arms men salute. I acknowledge them, nodding my approval, and drink from my glass. When I look at Ryker, I notice him studying the men, no doubt deciding if he trusts their word. Ryker and Richter lock eyes, and it’s then I witness the intensity of a warrior King’s threatening stare.
CHAPTER TEN
FIORA
While the rover crafts are prepared for flight, I meet with Richter, Kellan, and Sederick in the Queen’s sitting room.
“Once defenses are restored, what is your next order?” Richter asks, his hands resting comfortably on the armchair he occupies across from me.
“We’ll need to assign advisors for trade and industry and social welfare. I believe it’s best to assign an Anaukin soul to one and an Iowan soul to the other. It will show unity between our territories to have both on the royal council.”
“Once again, I agree,” he shares. “Do you have any individuals in mind?”
“I’d like to assign Riorrick of House Tuller to be the social welfare advisor. Knowing your people best, I’ll leave it to you to assign the trade and business advisor, but ensure it’s someone the other territories will be pleased to do business with.”
“I have someone in mind. I’ll contact him today. Will you want to meet him and give your approval?”
“Yes. Until I do so, I’ll personally handle any complications that might arise with trade and business. I have faith several of the territories will want to reinstate agreements once they receive word I’m staking claim on Iowan.”
“What about notifying the Global Journal?” Kellan asks. “When would you like to issue a public statement?”
“Today. Send them a message Iowan will now be governed by my crown, and that Iowan has fortified its defenses against any unwanted rulers.”
“Of the current monarchs, are there any you believe would pursue Iowan for themselves?” I can hear the concern in Richter’s voice, and I’m pleased the thought of another ruler claiming Iowan is something he dislikes. It reinforces my trust in him.
“None you’ve had trade and business with, but I’m the least familiar with the northernmost territories. I’ve heard of their brutal lifestyle and the conflicts between neighboring territories. Claiming land south of them would greatly benefit their needs, just as Belore saw it. Until Anauka and Iowan are operating collectively and efficiently under my rule, Iowan will remain a target. Fortunately, Iowan’s strength is its technological defenses that will benefit us in the coming months.”
“What of King Ryker and your engagement?” Sederick inquires. “Are Iowan and Anauka now under the protection of his crown?”
“Until I’m wed, Anauka and Iowan will need to rely on one another. King Ryker has done enough for us. He’ll need to give his attention to his own people. If there are no more affairs we need to discuss, it’s best we prepare to leave, gentlemen.”
Leaving the Queen’s sitting room, I gather the same coat, gloves, and boots I borrowed before. As I finish putting them on, Ryker, Everett, and the Freean arms men join us in the grand entry hall. Everett gives the all-clear that we’re able to board the rover crafts.
Settling into a seat, I watch out the window as the Iowan palace lessens in size. I’m glad to be leaving the palace for now, but there’s no sense of relief. There are many challenges ahead of me, and I’ve never felt more alone than I do now. Two men hold my heart in their hands, and neither will want to let me go. How do I explain I’m in love with them both? That I need one as much as the other? How do I choose?
Tension further tightens my chest as I think about what awaits me at home. How will the Royal Faction accept my return? Will they attempt to force my hand in marriage? How painful will it be to return to the palace where my mother raised me? Will her memory be everywhere, bringing my grief back to the surface?
Around me, the men’s voices are background noise as they make calls and attend to business. My gaze lingers out the window as the past and future muddle my mind and toy with my emotions. Soon, I feel the pressure of sleep and give in to it.
“Fiora.” Ryker’s voice rouses me from sleep. Squatting in front of me, he caresses my arm and hand. “We’ll be reaching Trinick City soon. Would you like to stop for the night or continue flying to the Free territory?”
“Continue on. I don’t mind arriving late as long as everyone else doesn’t.”
“We’re fine with continuing on.”
Everett opens a cold compartment next to the bar and begins handing sandwiches to others. One is passed to Ryker, who hands it to me.
“How are you feeling?”
Unwrapping the sandwich, I give him a forced smile.
“I’m all right. I’ll be glad when we arrive. I’m anxious to see my family.”
Everett hands Ryker another sandwich and he returns to his seat next to me.
“They’re just as eager to see you.”
It’s another several hours before the rover crafts reach the Freean border. As soon as we breach the land, I fidget in my seat as if my movements will make the rover craft land faster. Ryker catches my excited anticipation.
“I invited your family to stay at the palace tonight. They’re waiting for us to arrive.”
It’s past midnight, and they’re surely tired, but I’m thankful they’ll be there to greet me when I enter the palace.
“That was thoughtful of you. Thank you.”
Leaving my seat, I go to his and nestle into his lap.
“I know your reunion is important to all of you.”
I can’t help staring at him. Not only is he strikingly handsome, but he holds my attention with the love I see in his eyes.
“I appreciate you more than my words can ever express.”
Resting his hand on my cheek, his fingers cup the nape of my neck as he brings me forward for a kiss. The voices around us lower as our kiss goes on. When we come up for air, we’re breathing heavier, and I imagine my eyes are as hooded and glossy as his are.
“You show it in other ways, which I adore.”
My smile widens, and he winks at me, teasing me with his sexy grin. The rover craft lands, and I remain on Ryker’s lap as the arms men exit and form two lines of security. Together, we exit into the warm night air. Our steps are quick across the courtyard and into the palace. Inside the doors, I remove the borrowed boots while my heart pounds and my eyes dart to the stairwell and hallway in anticipation.
When my father rounds the corner, rubbing his eyes, I rush to him. In a night robe covering his sleepwear, he extends his arms for me to fill them.
“Fiora, my sweet.” His cheek presses to my head as he squeezes me in a hug. “I’m so grateful you’re safe.”
“Me too, father. I missed you terribly.” Warm tears trickle down my cheeks as I relish in the comfort of his hug. “I feared I’d never see my family again.”
Kissing my forehead, he drops an arm, leaving one around my back. Facing Ryker, he wipes at his own eyes.
“Thank you for returning her to us.”
Ryker step
s into our circle, brushing a hand over my hair before wiping tears from my cheek.
“I needed her back as much as you did. I love her, Your Majesty, and I will always uphold my promise to protect her.”
My father puts a hand on Ryker’s shoulder.
“You’re a great man and King. I will be honored to watch you take her hand in marriage.”
My father nudges me forward into Ryker’s sturdy arms.
“It means a great deal to have your blessing.”
“My darling, Fiora.”
Slipping out of Ryker’s arms, fresh tears cascade down my cheeks as I embrace my Grand Nina. Soft, aged skin rubs against my cheek as we hold on to each other, our emotions releasing through tears and trembling limbs.
“Oh, how I’ve missed you. There are no words for how grateful I am to see you returned safely.”
In her arms, I feel vulnerable. The loss of my mother and Belore’s abuse resurfaces and unleashes uncontrollable sobs. My Nina turns us away from the men. With an arm around me, she leads me to the stairs.
“Come now. Let’s speak privately.”
“Fiora…”
Ryker follows, reaching an arm out to comfort me.
“Not now, son. She needs her Grand Nina.”
With her words, Ryker’s footsteps stop. Continuing up the grand staircase, she keeps her arm around me, escorting me to the guest room she’s been given. The room is warm from the fireplace, it’s bedding and furniture in colorful and inviting colors like the rest of the palace. Sitting me in one of the high-back armchairs, she pushes the other closer to it, so our knees touch when she sits across from me. Taking my hands in hers, she gives them a motherly kiss.
“Let it all out, darling. Do not hold back, no matter how awful it is.”
With my body trembling and tears falling, I share the past events, starting with losing my mother and when I thought I’d lost Matheas. As I wipe my tears, a staff member enters the room, delivering hot tea and medicine, surely ordered by Ryker. Nina pours two mugs and adds herbal medicine to mine. With shaky hands, I sip the tea before sharing the abuse I suffered while in Belore’s captivity. Nina takes my hand as fresh tears spill down my cheeks. Her expression transitions between fury, empathy, and sadness before I continue and share my rescue, Belore’s death, and my current fears as Queen.
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