Page 15 of To Dwell in Shadows
“It’s not quaint—it’s just good sense.”
“Do your crones have nothing else to do but meddle?”
“Meddle? How dare you imply?—”
The sounds of Vanthee and Queen Thema’s argument faded as Selene peered up at Sam. The corners of his mouth were tight, and a deep line had formed between his eyebrows. When he noticed her looking at him, he whispered, “Once we see my parents, we’ll find you a place to rest.”
“I’m okay. How are you feeling?”
“Better, but… ” He hesitated then said, “That encounter was odd.”
“Yes. Do you remember her? Why would she say she’s your fated mate?”
“I don’t know.”
“She’s quite beautiful,” Selene said, unable to stop herself from fishing for reassurance.
“I disagree.”
Selene smiled at Sam’s matter-of-factness. When she heard a hiss come from Queen Thema’s throat, Selene realized her and Vanthee’s argument was escalating. It might be a good time to change the subject.
“Vanthee, where are the king and queen right now?” Selene asked.
Vanthee turned her steely gaze from Thema to say, “They usually spend mornings in their private courtyard.”
“Is there a way we can go there without passing through the public spaces?” Sam asked. “I would prefer that they are the first to know of my arrival.”
Vanthee’s face brightened. “Of course. I assumed you would want a reunion free from the prying eyes of courtiers. That is why I’m taking you through concealed passages. Look—here is our first doorway.”
Vanthee stopped in front of what appeared, to Selene,to a random spot in the seemingly endless hallway. Then, she raised her right arm, positioning it in front of a small dimple in the brick.
Selene watched with fascination as the snake tattoo on Vanthee’s skin shifted as if it were awakening. The inked head rose up from her flesh into a three-dimensional form. Its tiny tongue flicked out, then struck the stone, sinking in its fangs.
Instantly, the bricks trembled, groaned, and then parted, revealing a hidden doorway.
Vanthee stepped through, her eyes locked on Sam. She lifted her arm, smirking as the snake retracted its head and faded seamlessly back into her skin. “My key.”
Sam hesitated, then cleared his throat. “Uh… thank you. That’s impressive.”
Vanthee’s smirk widened. “I have other skills you might find even more impressive.” Her voice was a sultry purr.
Selene gritted her teeth.Oh, come on.
Vanthee led them through the passage into another hallway, this one colder and more decrepit than the last. She repeated her snake trick several times, unlocking passage after passage, until they finally stopped in front of a towering iron door.
Placing both palms against the metal, Vanthee turned dramatically. “We have arrived. Beyond this door, the king and queen await. It has been an honor to guide you, Prince Samael, and I look forward to growing closer as you settle back into your rightful place.”
Sam exhaled. “Thank you for leading us. But I’m only here to visit.”
Vanthee’s eyebrows shot up. “Is that so? Well, your plans may change when you?—”
“Vanthee!” Selene cried. Her patience had finally snapped. “Shut up and let Sam through. He’s waited for this moment long enough!”
Anger glinted in Vanthee’s red eyes, sending a twitch of fear through Selene. But her words had their intended effect. With a final glare, Vanthee turned back to the door and pressed her tattooed arm against it.
With a low groan, the iron door swung open.
Chapter 9
