Page 56 of Courting the Dragon King

“Still, I am sorry.” She lowered her gaze to the floor. “Very sorry.”

“Thank you, Grand Healer.” Konrad thought she looked like she might have more to say on the topic, but honestly, he did not have the desire to hear more apologies. So he said, “Enjoy the rest of your evening,” and continued on.

Surprisingly, he spotted Warden Jade, the daughter of the now deceased traitor Warden Flint. She often remained hidden in the Grey Mountain quarters, making few appearances. She stood talking with Konrad’s half-brother Leon.

Konrad kept walking. His thoughts whirled as he left the banquet hall and made his way through the monastery.

It wasn’t like he was trying to scare Wraith, and he had given his word that he would not harm him. Yet maybe that was not enough. Maybe his actions needed some adjusting.

But it was a completely reasonable reaction to not want a hellhound around! It was a fucking hellhound! Still … Konrad actually had no idea what a hellhound was or if they were in fact dangerous. He’d made no effort to find out.

Could it really not attack them?

He stopped walking. He placed his hands on his waist, tilted his head back, and stared up at the curved, vaulted ceiling.

Am I being cruel?

Konrad had always trusted Gerard’s judgement in the past. He should probably not discard it now. And Konrad had said some harsh words, especially after finding out Wraith had fucked ghosts.

But wasn’t that reasonable? Who fucked ghosts?

Elias acted like Konrad was the one acting inappropriately. Unfortunately Elias, as annoying as he was being at the moment, might also be on to something.

Konrad didn’t know what to think anymore. He just knew he didn’t like how he felt. And he didn’t like the idea that Wraith cowered from him. Furthermore, Konrad had promised to treat Wraith with respect. Right now, he definitely felt like he wasn’t living up to that promise.

He started walking again. “I’ll talk to him. I’ll be calm. I won’t be cruel.” He took a breath.

He would ask Wraith questions without being judgemental, unless he did see something that was obviously a threat to Draconia, in which case Konrad could not be blamed for protecting his kingdom.

Entering the Draconian quarters, he made his way to his room. No doubt Wraith would be there. But as he approached, he noticed that the guards were not outside the room, where they would have been if Wraith were within. He entered.

The guards bowed and left to stand outside the door. But there was no sign of Wraith anywhere.

Where is my husband?

Chapter

Twenty-Eight

Konrad paced back and forth. So if Wraith wasn’t here, where would he be? He supposed Wraith could be in the Necros quarters. He could have gone back. But Wraith’s chests still remained in Konrad’s room.

Could he be wandering the monastery or sitting in a garden somewhere? Elias said they’d left him before dinner, but that was hours ago.

Should I call a servant and ask if they’ve seen him? At least his guards are with him.

A knock sounded on the door. Konrad crossed the room and opened it.

Wraith stood before him, gaze down.

“Where have you been?” Konrad asked.

Wraith flinched. “I … I was just in one of the sitting rooms.”

“He cowers from you.” Fuck. Gerard was right.

Konrad stepped aside. “Please, come in,” he said, gentling his voice.

“I just need to get a change of clothes.” Wraith rushed towards his chests. “I’ll be quick.” He knelt, flung one open, and rummaged inside. “And um, I was wondering if I could call for a bath. Or could I at least use the basin to wash? I’ll leave straight after that. I promise.”