Page 163 of Queen of the Crimson Throne

She shook her head. “Sure.”

I didn’t say anything more, but I truly did think she was beautiful. Her dress was torn. The white fabric at the bottom was now stained with red and black blood and covered in dirt. The same blood was splattered over her face and chest.

Half her hair remained in the intricate updo, the other half had fallen loose around her face and down her back. Somehow through it all her crown remained on her head. Somewhere she had acquired a sheath for her sword and it was belted over her gown.

My beautiful, fierce wife.

“This was some wedding, huh?”

“Sure was memorable, that’s for sure.” She poked me gentlyin the side. “Good thing we took matters into our own hands last night.”

“Good thing.”

“Where is everyone?” Nico asked as we entered the palace, Zienna and Declan following closely behind. The grand hall was empty and the entire place was quiet.

“Hello?” Lennox called. “Hello? Where is everyone?”

“Most everyone went to bed.” Arlo appeared from the dining room. “I said I would stay up until you arrived.”

“Everyone is okay?” The concern in Lennox’s voice was evident.

“A few injuries from the couple of Dhampirs that snuck in after you left, but no more casualties. We were prepared.”

Lennox stiffened beside me. I knew what she was thinking. We were not so lucky in our pursuit.

“There were a few that tried to sneak out before interrogation, they were captured swiftly and detained.”

“Caterina sent word about them. They’re in the dungeon I assume?” Declan asked.

“Yes. They are under high guard until you are ready to see them.”

“Did Caterina find anyone else guilty in her questioning?”

Arlo shook his head. “Not that I know of, but I’m sure she will have a full report for you in the morning.”

“Perfect, thank you,” Lennox responded.

“If you don’t need anything else from me, I’ll be off to bed now.”

“Please, go get some rest. We will see you in the morning,” she told my grandfather.

“You get some rest too, your Majesty.” He gave Lennox a firm nod.

“I will.”

My grandfather looked at me. “I trust you will make sure she sticks to her word?”

I gave him a slight smile. “Yes, I already told her as much.”

“Look at you, making a fine husband already.” His face softened. “I’m sorry your wedding ended up being such a disaster.” It was hard to reconcile this male in front of me, the caring grandfather, and the male that might have had a hand in murdering Lennox’s family. We needed to figure out his role in this sooner rather than later.

I pulled Lennox to my side and gave her a small smile. “We can’t change the past.”

“No, you can’t.” My grandfather sighed deeply. “Goodnight.” With that, he dipped his head and left.

“Bed. Now.” I steered her in the direction of her room.

“But—”

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