Page 28 of Protecting his Secrets

Nick let Malachi take the lead on the conversation, knowing Randall could be a force of nature when he wanted or needed to be, especially when someone was hurt. He nodded at Landon, who was on duty outside Andrew’s office that day.

“I’m good, thanks. Plenty of sleep and a lovely breakfast was just what I needed.”

Nick ignored the surge of pleasure that flowed through him when Malachi glanced at him when he said, “breakfast.” He wasn’t at all happy that Malachi enjoyed what he’d ordered him. Truly he wasn’t.

“King Andrew is ready when you are,” Randall ended the conversation politely, and Malachi smiled.

“I won’t take up much of his time. I promise.”

Randall waved him away. “You’ll take as much of his time as he’ll let you. But yes, maybe less is more today. He’ll want to get back to Kean.”

“We can reschedule,” Malachi said.

Randall shook his head, smiling. “He won’t hear of it. I tried already. To be honest, it’ll be good for him. It’ll give Kean and Kendal some time together.”

Nick did not want those images in his head, so he headed for the office door. “Do you want to announce us, Randall?”

“Yes, of course.”

He knocked and popped his head through the door, mumbling something Nick couldn’t decipher, and then he came back out and nodded. “Go on in.”

Malachi hesitated and looked at Nick, so he smiled and nodded. “He won’t bite.”

“I know. I just…” Malachi shook his head and sent a small smile back. “Never mind.”

He knocked as he pushed on the door, and Nick followed, thanking Randall before he closed them inside.

“Mr Sanders! How are you feeling today?”

King Andrew rose from his chair and headed towards them, hand outstretched. Malachi took it and shook.

“I’m all good, thank you. Nothing more than a reaction. It’s inevitable at some point.”

“Still. Are you well? There are no adverse side effects from what happened?”

Malachi shook his head. “Everything is fine. I’ve been through it before, and it’s why I have my pen. I just get really tired afterwards.”

“I can imagine it takes a toll on your body. Would you like something to drink or eat?”

“I’m good, thanks. We’ve just had breakfast.” Malachi glanced at him again, a small smile curving his lips.

“Nick?” Andrew asked.

“You know me. I would never say no to coffee, but I can get it, Your Majesty. Would you like anything?”

“Tea, please.” Andrew returned his attention to Malachi and gestured to the uncomfortable sofas he purposefully had in his office. He said they made people leave quicker than they would if they were comfortable, so Nick couldn’t begrudge him.

He made two drinks while eavesdropping on the pleasantries most people started a conversation with. Nick carried a mug of tea over to the king and settled at his usual post against the wall, sipping the hot nectar of the gods. He wasn’t sure how any of the bodyguards survived without coffee, but somehow they must.

“Nick, come and sit down,” Andrew said.

“I’m okay, Your Majesty. Thank you.” Those sofas were not to be trifled with.

“I insist. Come join us.”

Nick inwardly sighed, knowing his butt was going to ache after that meeting, but he dutifully sat next to Malachi and crossed his ankle over his knee.

“So, Malachi,” Andrew started. “What questions do you have for me?”

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