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Shock colored Maren’s complexion. “What?”
“Of course, I took those who were responsible and made examples out of them.” I caught her expression and groaned. “I didn’t give them a public flogging or execute anyone, if that’s what you’re thinking.”
“What did you do?”
“I lined them up in the foyer and made them tell the entire household what dates were covered in this pool. There were many denials at first, protests, blaming—I’m sure you can imagine how it went down. But ultimately, they did what I told them. And then they were all fired. None of them will ever workin Steelshire again, and I’ve blacklisted them in the other three kingdoms in Mystara as well, but who knows what protocols the other kings follow in these situations.”
“I don’t want to get anyone in trouble for voicing their opinion,” she insisted, and I loved her even more in that moment than I had before. “Please, Nyx, at least lift the blacklist on them. Maybe you don’t want them here, but don’t ruin their lives.”
I studied her compassionate face and shook my head. “Fine,” I conceded. “But I’m going to make damn sure that everyone knows why the blacklist was lifted.”
Relief sank into her face. “Thank you.” She brushed a kiss over my lips. When we parted, I stared at her.
“I want you to move back in here,” I informed her. “I don’t think it’s safe for you to be on your own.”
Her eyes widened. “Not safe? What do you mean?”
My hands slipped down over her belly, and she sighed, shaking her head. “I’ll be fine with the baby?—”
“That’s not what I mean, Maren. There have been two acts of violence too close to you. One at Maximo’s, and one in the building. Even with Drakias, I don’t think you’re safe enough.”
She tipped her head back to look at me. “Are you just saying that because I’m carrying your baby?”
“I’m saying that because you are the most precious thing I call mine, and I will do anything to keep you safe,” I replied evenly. “I know I can’t force you to come here, Maren, but I want you to consider it very seriously—for your sake and our child’s. I will be issuing a formal announcement about the heir to the throne tomorrow. With that, an extremely stern warning that anyone who gossips about anything will be immediately terminated.”
She released a small groan. “Oh, Nyx.”
“You must show them that you aren’t afraid of them, Maren. You belong here because you are mine.”
She flushed with pleasure, and she raised her head for a kiss.
“Is that a yes?” I prompted. “Are you going to move back in here?”
“Yes,” she sighed, settling back against the lounger. “I’m coming back.”
“Good. I’ll have the movers go tomorrow. Are you able to meet them?”
She nodded. “I’ll take the day off. The new manager is much more agreeable than Jergin was.”
Maren blushed as if she had just heard what she’d said, but I didn’t comment on it. It was true; Jergin had been an asshole.
“Oh, one more thing,” I added. “You’ll be staying up here, with me.”
I watched her face, expecting some kind of adverse reaction to my suggestion, but she seemed pleased with the arrangement.
“Good,” she sighed, snuggling into me. “Because we wasted far too much time apart, if you ask me.”
Chapter 20
Maren
“Iheard the king’s speech this morning!” Tristiana screeched in my ear. “Why didn’t you tell me?”
I leaned against the kitchen counter as I waited for the movers to arrive at the apartment the following morning. “I was scared,” I replied.
“You could have told me. I would have been there for you,” Tristiana complained over the phone.
“I’m sorry, Tris. It’s been an emotional roller coaster with everything going on.”
