Page 21 of Witch’s Heart

“I suspect you want them trailing me at all times?”

“That would be safest. Julian can keep an eye on things when you’re distracted by court matters⁠—”

“I don’t get distracted.”

“—and Lola is there for any emergency injuries.”

The servants chose that moment to walk in with their tea service. He almost cursed. There wasn’t much more of this conversation he wanted, but with tea just arriving, they had a reason to linger.

“Fuck me,” he muttered under his breath as they set it out. If Mina were here, she could carry the whole conversation for him. He could merely sit and bask in her presence while she deftly handled everything.

Instead…

“Corven,” he barked, turning to the nearest servant. He’d made a point to learn the names of those working directly in his chambers, especially knowing his father never had. He’d also had them vetted extensively, then insisted they undergo yet another check after the attempt on his life.

“Yes, Your Majesty?”

“Get my steward. Have him brought to me immediately. The rest of you—dismissed.” The remaining servants disappeared.

A quiet lull stretched between them as Lola and Mya helped themselves to tea. He watched as Julian sat unmoving, watching his lady witch. Lola finished stirring her teacup, clinking the delicate spoon on its rim before lifting it, saucer and all. He blinked when she didn’t take a sip, but instead, passed it to Julian.

“Thank you, Lo.” Julian’s voice was quiet. Something like affection sparked in the male’s eyes.

Huh.

To keep busy, he went back to the liquor cabinet and poured another whiskey, then paused. He brought the whole bottle back, motioning with it to Mya.

“Oh!” She chuckled. “Don’t mind if I do.” She took it and poured a generous amount into her teacup before passing it on. The others did the same.

Andrei Toreli appeared a few minutes later. “You called, Sire?”

“Yes, come, sit. Help yourself to some tea.” Andrei did as asked, eyeing them warily.

He waited until the male had poured himself tea, also helping himself to the bottle of whiskey, before saying, “It’s been brought to my attention that I ought to employ a taste tester—in the event future attempts are made.”

Andrei froze, eyes darting to the whiskey.

Rixon huffed. “If it was poisoned, we’d probably be dead at this point. But going forward, I ought to have someone testing everything I take in. You will find me someone suitable?”

“Have you anyone in mind?”

“Someone whose presence doesn't drive me mad.”

“It will be done.”

“Good. Next matter. Lola and Julian will be shadowing me going forward. See to it that they have accommodations—” He stopped himself to look up at them. “One room or two?”

Lola and Julian shared a glance. Julian’s jaw flared⁠—

“Two would be fine, Your Majesty,” Lola quickly said.

“Two rooms near mine,” he finished, waiting for Andrei’s agreement. “They will join us at mealtimes, court, et cetra.”

“Shall I have the necessary attire obtained—?” Andrei began.

“What they’re wearing—what they choose to wear—is fine by me. Though…” He looked at Lola for directions.

“A few nicer garments, perhaps…” she managed, her voice low.