Page 204 of The Robin on the Oak Throne

“You have different rules in England. You should keep them there,” Graves told him.

Kingston waved his cane around. “You could learn a thing or two from us.”

“We learned to get rid of you,” Kierse said cheekily. “Tea in the harbor. Red coats going down with them. All that.”

“Got a backbone on this one,” Kingston noted with a laugh. “Well, it’s only a few days. And I didn’t bring a red coat.” His smile widened.

“I very nearly sent Imani home in a body bag,” Graves growled. The warlock territorial nature rearing its ugly head. “I didn’taskfor visitors in my city.”

Kingston straightened, finally perceiving the threat. “Are you suggesting that I’m not welcome?”

“I’m suggesting that you should give notice,” Graves said.

“Since when haveIhad to give notice?”

“I’m working.”

“You could use a vacation,” Kingston quipped.

“You were my mentor,” Graves said. “You were there in my formative youth. That is the only reason that I am not demanding you leave my city on the next plane for England. I don’t have the patience for this.”

“You’re always so touchy when the solstice isapproaching.”

Graves sighed like he found him insufferable. “Just go.”

Kierse thought Kingston might actually go at Graves’s insistence. It was his city, after all. While he was not at the height of his power by any stretch of the imagination, he was still formidable, especially in his own home.

Then Kingston laughed, slapping Graves on the back again. “I do love your antics. I’ll take my usual room until I can get into the Plaza tomorrow. Make a reservation for me at the Met in the morning. I want to recharge before I go.” He dropped his hat back on his head. “Will Isolde be cooking tonight or should we go out?”

Graves looked like he wanted to bury a sword through his mentor’s back as Kingston headed toward the stairs.

“I’ll have Isolde prepare dinner,” Graves told him.

“Jolly good!” he said, waving his cane.

Kierse watched him go in shock. Kingston was the only person Kierse had ever met who threw Graves completely off guard. He could get away with things no one else could.

“You’re letting him stay,” Kierse said in surprise.

“Did it much look like I had a choice?” Graves growled.

“Without wasting a lot of power…no.”

“It’ll be easier to deal with him quickly and send him on his way. Just another fucking complication.” He pinched the bridge of his nose and released a breath. “Follow me.”

Her stomach dipped in anticipation as she went upstairs with him and entered his personal office. He shut the door behind them, and the buzz of his magic enveloped the room as he made the room soundproof.

“What happened?” he demanded.

“Happened?”

“With you. Something happened. You’re being avoidant.”

“Yes,” she agreed. “I…didn’t want to say anything in front of anyone else.”

He went around to his desk and leaned against it, waiting for her response. “No one else is here now.”

“Right.”

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