Page 16 of Destiny of a King

If not that way? What way?

That he even gave it thought startled him.

“Enough,” he muttered and got in bed.

He would have Eunice brought to his bedchamber tomorrow night. He had gone without a woman longer than usual and that was why his loins had stirred. It had nothing to do with Adira. It was simply an unsatisfied need.

He fell into a troubled sleep, the enjoyable feel of Adira’s full breast not leaving his hand.

Chapter Five

Caerith Castle

The War Room

King Dravic stood at the table in the war room, one hand resting on the edge of a map. More maps lay unrolled across the long table, weighted at the corners by carved stone markers.

“I have not ridden across this land in several years,” Dravic said, spreading his hand across the map before looking at Adira standing opposite him at the table. “I wonder how much of it has changed, and if my regional lords have kept me informed of such change.”

Adira watched him. His gestures told her he spoke of Scotara. His expression told her he questioned something. The slight narrowing of his eyes told her he did not yet know what to do about it. Whatever it was, it concerned him.

Her eyes followed the king’s to the door and it opened.

Tavish entered.

“They have left without incident,” Dravic asked, it having taken a full day to ready the group before they could take their leave.

“Aye, my king,” Tavish said. “Wynn, Bria, Kaelan. Dar and Elara as you ordered. They ride for Driochmor. Though with substantial snow on the ground, their journey will take longer, as will any word sent back to us.”

“Dar and Kaelan will make sure any important news reaches me posthaste,” Dravic said with quiet certainty.

Tavish nodded and remained standing there, silent.

Dravic glared at him. “What is it? You look troubled. Do you not agree with my decision?”

“Your decision to send all of them was sound,” Tavish replied without hesitation.

“Then speak.”

Tavish hesitated for only a moment. “Rumors are spreading like wildfire through the castle.”

Dravic’s eyes narrowed slightly. “What rumors?”

Tavish cast a quick glance at Adira. “That she is more than your companion.”

Silence dropped into the room like stone.

Adira glanced between the two men. The king looked angry. The other looked uneasy.

“Tell me, Tavish, do you believe this?” Dravic asked.

Tavish shook his head. “Nay, my king.” He paused. “But I believe the castle does.”

Dravic looked at Adira. “She remains under my protection.”

Tavish did not argue that point, but his next words came carefully. “Then she should not be sleeping in your bedchamber.”

Adira understood then. They were speaking about her, and the king was not pleased.