Page 99 of A Crown Without Mercy

“Milord, I appreciate you escorting my bairn home and let the Acherons know I owe them a debt of gratitude,” Cadell stated.

The warrior pulled his stallion’s reins, and they left.

Calista looked at Cadell and whispered. “Why are they placing us under guard?”

“I don’t know?” He then looked at Markus and Leodion and spoke telepathically.“This can’t be good.”

“No,”Markus replied.

“Markus and I will stay at your manor tonight and I will have the others remain close by until we figure out what is happening,” Leodion said.

Cadell nodded and turned his attention back to Laurent. “Let’s get you home. Your mother is worried sick.”

“Father, I am so sorry.” Laurent tried to be stoic, but his body’s innate reactions failed him; he could not stop trembling and tears dripped from his eyes.

Cadell wrapped Laurent in a tight embrace, and he rested his head on his father’s shoulder and faced Calista. “Calista, I’m sorry. I did not mean to get Mira in trouble.”

“It’s okay, Laurent.”

“Calista, I would like for you to stay at my manor tonight,” Cadell offered.

“I appreciate the offer, but I will feel more comfortable at home.”

“Considering the recent situation, I insist.”

“Not to be rude, but I am not comfortable being around Enatta. You know how she feels about us.”

“I understand, and I will speak to her before arriving. I will give you a formal order if needed. Your brother will most likely be gone all night, and after what has just taken place, I will not leave Kadric’s daughter to fend for herself.”

“Cadell, please.”

“Let’s go,” he replied.

Laurent rode up next to Calista. “I won’t let my mother bother you.”

“That’s very sweet of you, Laurent.” She smiled.I’d rather be in a fucking cell for the night than stay with that wretched lady.

Chapter 14

SylvanalookedatRiordanwhen they passed Nicolai’s door. “Where are we going?”

“To my chamber,” he replied.

Sylvana’s face paled, and each step felt as if it was in unison with the slow, dragging beat of her heart. “All of us?” she asked meekly.

“No. It will be you and I, for now.”

He opened the door and held it open with his palm. Nicolai kissed the back of her hand while Kieran kissed her forehead.

“We will return,” Nicolai stated.

It was as if she had walked through an energetic veil when she stepped across the threshold; his bedchamber was as opulent and regal as Nicolai’s.

“Do not be nervous. I will only bite once,” he said with a half-cocked grin.

She glanced up at him and smiled nervously. “Only once?”

He filled two glasses and handed her one. “I want you to feel comfortable.” He took a seat on the settee and motioned for her to sit next to him.

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