Page 58 of My Demon Desire
My dad silently offers his arm, and I take it, a comforting warmth wrapping me in a hug as we make our way to bed. I glance back at the guys, hoping that once we get the book, we can figure out together how to carry out the queen's legacy.
But I know whatever happens, they'll be with me.
"So..." My dad chuckles as we walk down the hallway to Kaden's room.
I figure the guys and I can sleep in Thorne's bedroom, his bed is big enough for half a dozen people or monsters.
"Three dark fae? And you love them all equally."
"Dad," I say in an exasperated voice and roll my eyes. "I said no more sex talk."
"This is different." His voice is serious and I pause. "Your mother had five lovers."
When I open my mouth to argue that I don't want to know this, he lifts a finger.
“We had one of those paternity tests done, the one where only we get the results…and it confirmed what I already knew inside; that you were my daughter. But even if you had been fully fae or the daughter of the other human lover your mom had, you are and forever will be my daughter.
"All of them died to protect her. It was only because I was human and could escort her over the other side that I lived." He releases a sad sigh. "Every day I wonder if one of them had been able to shift into a human if they could've protected her better. If she'd still be alive if it wasn't for me."
"Oh, Daddy." I pull him into a hug. "I miss her too, but she loved you. I know she'd never have given up her life with you and me for anything. Not even a castle."
He hugs me harder. "And it is a really nice castle."
"It sure is." At least from what I could tell. I feel an odd mix of anxiety and excitement swelling within me as I realize I'm finally making the journey my mother wanted for me all those years ago. I just hope that I'm ready for anything that comes my way. But whatever happens, I know that I'll be okay as long as I have Kaden, Reis, and Thorne.
After I show my dad to Kaden's room, I head back to the kitchen.
"So." I yawn, feeling more tired than I ever have in my life. "I was going to ask who wants an orgy in the bathhouse, but I'm exhausted."
"You used a powerful amount of magic today." Reis walks over to me and grabs my face in his hands, kissing my lips. "Let's get you to bed. The orgy can wait."
"Promise?" I whisper, trying to sound sexy, but another yawn comes out.
He chuckles and scoops me up. "Promise."
"Let's tuck our queen into bed." Thorne grins at me in the most wicked way that my heart speeds up.
"Kaden?" I ask, looking at him.
"Sure, I'm game."
We all walk to Thorne's bedroom, me nestled between Reis and Thorne's strong arms. I lay down in the soft blankets and watch as the guys all get ready for bed and I can't believe they are mine.
Reis pulls the covers up to my chin, kissing me on the forehead. "Good night, know you're safe with us."
I smile, warmth flooding my chest at the exchange.
Kaden takes the other side of the bed, wrapping his arms around me from the back. "Me too, Annalise."
Thorne joins us, shoving Kaden aside, then hugging me from behind and murmuring something unintelligible into my hair.
The guys fall asleep quickly, their arms still draped protectively around me. And as I drift off, I know that I am safe here. We will get back the book and restore the crown. Together, we can make this happen. I just need to be brave and follow my heart.
I can't help but feel this is the start of something beautiful with these three. With them, I'm ready to face this world. No matter what. With them at my side, I truly believe I can do anything.
CHAPTER20
ANNALISE
