Page 23 of The Iron Fae
“So, not to sound like I’m prying.” The Prince doesn’t bother to smother the look of smugness as he practically skips forward. “but… is your apathy toward Rowan because you have interest elsewhere.”
I scoff, cover my face with my hand. “Kai, now we sound like a couple of gossiping hens.”
“What’s wrong with that? I like talking with you. Gossip with me a little, Briar.”
They all know it.I reassure myself.Your attraction to Lincoln hasn’t been hidden well. Might as well confess it.
“I just don’t want to lead him on, that’s all.” I try to say.
Kai rolls his eyes. “You’re not fooling anyone.”
“No?”
“No. I can tell you miss the half breed. It’s a shame, because you could do better, you know?”
“Better than Lincoln?” I wish he were kidding, though I know he very much is not. “I’m half breed too, you know?”
“But you’re a true royal one. A king’s first born like myself. That’s the difference” Kai brushes it off. “In a world where you were not a rightful Queen, I think Lincoln and you would likely be very nice together. Make beautiful babies.”
I smile despite how much my stomach twists in silence.
The Prince continues, “You’ll need a royal husband.”
“Like you?” I deadpan.
Kai shifts, pointing his gaze off toward the ground. The door to the dining room is propped open, Rowan and Violet already in conversation as their voices drift to us. The smell of seasoned turkey greets me and my stomach twists with hunger.
“Yes but no. There are other courts to choose from. But I would be honored if you had any interest in me.”
“Kai Ziko, are you blushing?” I laugh.
His eyes flair but more so as if he is addressing an internal dialogue rather than our conversation. His steps slow as we reach the dining hall.
“My parents have wanted to extend our reign and uniting two Courts would do just that. It’s just a thought. Obviously, this isn’t romantic.” He raises his eyebrows as if to say, ‘unless you want it to be’.
I swat at him. If I’d met Kai first would I still have fallen for Lincoln? Kai’s patient and kind, but our relationship feels far too much like the stereotypical gay best friend scenario. Without the gay part, kind of.
“What about Jase? Are you guys… together?”
“Please, after you.” He gestures for me to enter before him. “I’m not sure I would label it as officially together. Though I’d be inclined to invite him to stay at the castle much under the ruse you’re playing.”
The flash of the image of Jase goofily grinning in the handcuffs on the headboard of the bed comes to mind. I push the image off quickly wishing it had never come to mind.
“I’m sure he’d like that very much.” I encourage. “But only if you promise not to break his heart.”
“I’m a Prince, I can make no such promises.” He winks, pulling out a chair for me to sit. His words don’t settle well with me. He’s playing the part of my friends’ boyfriend who all too quickly gives me bad vibes. But I just can’t help but like him because he is just so damn charming. Is it possible that Kai is too polite? Is that even a thing?
“I wouldn’t sit there if I were you.” Rowan wags a finger as I lower into my seat.
I still hover, just above the cushioned bottom. “Why not?”
“The King and Queen are joining us for dinner.” Violet beams. She taps her long nails on the table’s edge, looking eagerly between Kai and I. I wonder why she doesn’t address them as Mother or Father.
“Well, shit,” Kai sighs. “Come now.” He hurriedly waves.
“This will be fun to watch.” Rowan smirks from across the table.
Will it?A nervous energy builds inside of me only released in sweat that pools in my palms. I step around the chair allowing Kai to push it back in. He moves to his own seat, planting himself in it then points to his lap.
