Page 127 of The Vampire's Soul

Wow.

“At least you’re communicating better this time,” Ari muttered, rubbing his forehead. “You know. Being honest.”

“Enjoy taking your last stab, Moretti.”

Fair enough.

“How will this play out?” He glanced over at Vincent, who was wrapped around Lucca and Kate.

“Seriously? You’re still concerned about what your family will think? Look around you? This reality is about to becomedust. This planet a rotting wasteland spinning inside an empty solar system.”

Wow. Very descriptive.

“A true leader doesn’t do that.” God crossed his arms. “A true leader stands in the face of criticism and judgment and keeps moving forward, anyway.”

He nodded, glancing around at the family, their expressions one of pain and fear. He dragged his eyes away, hating they were frozen in time for him to anguish over, knowing with one (not) simple choice, he could change this.

“What happens if I choose?” Ari asked, “To them. To my mate. To the two races and all the living creatures on earth?”

If he had to face his nephews and take the throne to save everyone, then he would. No matter the cost. They may not know why, but he’d know. He’d know he’d saved their lives and allowed everyone to keep living.

“You have chosen. I am proud of you, Ari. I will make the changes required.” God lowered his head once in a nod.

Ari dipped his head to Sage, smiling, knowing they would be together again soon. Brushing the hair from her face, imagining her as the race’s beloved queen, he saw a future he’d never dared to dream.

“Then, I accep—”

EPILOGUE

Brayden

Because it has to end with the vampire who started it all

Ari grabbed the wall of the operations room and glanced around as if he’d just teleported in and was shocked to see them all.

“You okay?” Brayden asked.

“Get your fucking feet off the desks when the king is in the room.” Craig whacked at Ben’s sneakers.

“That’s not even a rule.” Ben went to lift his feet again and next minute the two vampires were in a tumble.

Brayden rolled his eyes.

“Sorry, Your Majesty, I normally have these assholes under much better control.” Brayden grinned at his uncle.

Ari blinked.

Jesus. Was he ill?

“Seriously, you okay, Ari?” He took a step closer. “Should I call Sage?”

The king’s mouth opened. “Sage.”

Wow. He was spacing out.

“Your—”

“Queen.” Ari said, blinking, and it was as if the fog disappeared. “Sage, my queen.”

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