Page 72 of Warrior's Reign
“To give us information on the symposium.”
“Us? I highly doubt that. And his price?”
Under his penetrating gaze, she almost blushed. Reign stiffened, expression hardening. “Nothing. He was just fucking with me.”
His expression darkened. Poor choice of words, maybe. “I believe that is the point. Be wary, Reign. He understands seduction.”
Reign scowled at him. “I sent a report to Evvek, he said he would follow up and comm you if the lead panned out. And seduction only works if the guy has something you want.”
He surveyed her face, eyes cool, then lowered his head slightly. “You don’t find him attractive?”
She was absolutely not honestly answering that question. So she deflected. “Is this how you do jealous?”
Vykhan stepped back. “Jealousy is a petty emotion, especially when what he wants is already mine. Come.”
Reign snorted as he turned on his heel and strode away.
Rude.
He stopped after a few feet so she could catch up, his hand pressing briefly on the small of her back. She felt his silent fuming, or at least his version of it. An edge to his usual quiet, his conversation a little too soft as he escorted her to his personal flier.
“You definitely get paid more than me,” she muttered as she stepped inside the latest model two-person transport. Sleek, shiny, black, equipped with a state-of-the-art comm system and even a beverage dispenser.
He ordered it to auto and offered her a drink, programming the music to something ethereal.
It was so date-like, she had a moment of unease. Why being on a date with Vykhan bothered her when she was literally flying to his house for a betrothal dinner made no sense.
But it was what it was. They still had that one thing to discuss looming over their heads, but. . .not yet. She kept avoiding the talk, and would probably avoid it as long as possible. Reign rubbed her chest absently, sipping the chilled wine as she watched the scenery flying by.
They left the city and traveled into the countryside where estates sprawled across multiple acres, and finally set down in front of a dark wood house that was more modest than she had expected. Maybe because most of their wealth was in the land.
She looked around, studying the blossoming fruit trees and cattle that meandered the fields beyond. She didn’t recognize the crops despite being a farmer’s stepdaughter.
“What does your family grow?” she asked, nodding her head.
He followed her gaze. “A sweet grain this year. From off planet.”
She pursed her lips. “Non-native species? That’s hardly traditional.”
“We like to experiment.” Aanyah emerged from the house, a spill of golden light illuminating her as she slowly descended the porch steps.
Reign turned and bowed. “Second.”
“Adejahna. Welcome. Your mother and Benyon have already arrived.”
“Are we late, Mother?” Vykhan asked.
“Not at all.” She smiled up at her son, pressing a kiss on his cheek—after placing one on Reign’s. “We’re pleased work didn’t interfere.”
“For a few hours maybe,” Reign said, only half joking. “We’d better eat fast.”
Aanyah laughed. “Not too fast. The dessert is meant to be savored. Come.”
She linked arms with Reign, allowing Vykhan to trail behind. Dozian Rhyksai rose when they entered the dining room. Reign contained her awe, executing another flawless bow.
“First.”
He strode forward. “Let’s not be formal, newest daughter.” He took Reign’s face between his hands and kissed her forehead.
