Page 56 of Frost and Death
A groan escapes as Rick’s rich voice chuckles. “You could at least say thank you for reviving you after fainting for thesecondtime in my presence.”
All I can think to do is stick my tongue out. Warmth blooms behind my cheeks at the childish behavior, but I cannot even contemplate moving another inch with the arrow still lodged in my upper back.
Of course, Rick laughs again, and I wish I could smack the amusement off his face. His expression turns conniving as his blue eyes meet mine, the fire illuminating his features.
“Better watch what you do with that tongue of yours, My Queen, or I’ll be forced to do something about it.”
“Fuck you,” I lash out.
He will sorely regret saying that.
I might not be able to do anything—but if word of me being injured gets back to Niko, he will unleash Oblivion upon Rick.
His eyes grow hard and heavy, deep with desire as he clicks his tongue. “Oh, we will get to that eventually… after we wed, of course.” He shrugs with nonchalance, and I scowl deeper. “I’m a gentleman, after all.”
Anger rises within me. “Your idea of marrying me will never count in my kingdom.”
Rick cocks his head, leaning in as he asks, “Who said anything about your kingdom?”
I roll my eyes with annoyance. “You can’t be serious. There is no way you’ll get away with kidnapping a queen. Niko will—”
Rick applies pressure to my right arm, a wave of new torturous pain rippling through me.
I shriek in frustration and agony and annoyance that my emotions, my body, always take the lead over my mind.
Will there ever be an occasion, a day, or a time where I won’t be consumed by pain, distress, and grief? Will I ever learn not to cry?
Everythingfuckinghurts.
He removes his hold and pulls me upright, forcing another roar of pain from me.
Rick chuckles darkly. “Who said anything aboutyourkingdom?”
My eyes widen when a shadow descends over Rick’s features, his darkened gaze growing knowingly as his lips lift.
Fear sinks in.
I scan my surroundings once more.
Biala Forest is at the border of Axidoria, and that means…No.
The only other kingdom close enough is—
No. No. No. No. NO!
This isn’t happening. My heart slows, and the hair on the back of my neck rises.
Thiscan’tbe happening.
Rick’s stare remains intent on me as the pieces fall into place, and my mouth runs dry.
“Y-You’re—” I gulp down air despite my throat closing.
Goose bumps prickle against my skin as Rick stands, offering me an exaggerated bow. He remains bent at the waist, but those ice-cold eyes flick up to meet mine.
“King Jerrick of Palaena.”
The King of Palaena…
