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More squealing ensues, and I do step forward at that. “More people…are coming here?”
Anastasia shoots me a glare, clearly trying to silence me. I do as she silently demands, huffing as I lean back against the wall.
From the corner of my eye, I see Rej’thorek surveying me. I don’t care for the way he’s studying me, as if he can tell what’s on my mind, and as he steps closer, I decide I don’t care if he is a Prince. I will sweep him if he thinks he can overrule me in my own house.
But then he extends something toward me, and, with a pointedly annoyed expression, I turn toward him to see what it is. By the Thirteen, it’s a fine bottle of spirits that I could definitely use right now.
“I apologize for springing this on you. Laura insisted it be a secret, and, well…” He shrugs one shoulder and chuckles. “You know what that’s like.”
I snort, nodding as my gaze swipes back to the two women. They are still chattering excitedly, and I’m not sure the grimace I feel coming is well veiled. How is something so small so loud?
“Perhaps we could step away.” Rej’thorek shakes the bottle a little to get my attention. “They seem plenty occupied, and…” He leans in close, dropping his voice down conspiratorially. “Between you and me, I’m not sure how much of their screeching I can handle.”
This does break me, and I crack a smile. Rej’thorek relaxes as his lips curl up even higher, and I have to admit that out of all the Princes, I have liked him. Perhaps I shouldn’t lay the blame of his father onto him.
But I won’t be so hasty as to completely dismiss my thoughts.
“I think they are quite entertained with each other. The patio is lovely this hour.” The sky is in the midst of a violent storm that will be lovely to watch.
Neither woman seems to notice as we slink away, but I still can’t settle the uneasy feeling blooming through me.
Can I trust them enough to leave Anastasia alone?
Can I trust anyone?
126
LAURA
“What’s it been like with Volikan?”
I’m seated across from Anastasia now, standing being a bit difficult when she’s carrying so much extra weight. My excitement started to twist the second I saw her, but with the way she is glowing and happily rubbing her stomach, I am ashamed of how sour it has turned.
I am thrilled for her. I truly am. I love children, and I’ve even teased Cora for not having any, yet. She’s always been such a natural mother that I am surprised that she hasn’t.
With me, though, it’s no surprise.
Jealousy rears its ugly head once again, and I try to silence it.
“He’s been something else,” she answers, shaking her head, and I nearly forget what we were talking about. “There’s something different about seeing him as a dad.”
“I can imagine.”
That is something I can relate to, even if I am not allowed to say it. Seeing Rej’thorek with Akos warms my heart in a way that nothing else can. He is incredible with the kid, and I do love him as my own.
Sometimes, I feel jealous and guilty for not being able to give Rej’thorek his own son, though. Especially when I know that other women can.
But he always soothes those anxious emotions, telling me that there is nothing he would change about our little family. He wipes away all my worry with his love, and after a picnic or games with Akos, I feel much more content with my life.
No, not content. Overwhelmed with how well it has turned out.
“I honestly think that he is nesting worse than I am.”
At this, I laugh. Volikan is scary – even for a demon. When we came in, I wasn’t convinced that he wasn’t going to attack us for showing up at his home. He’s a massive warrior covered in flecks of scars that make even the lower demons shrink away in fear.
The idea of him wanting to decorate a nursery has me cracking up.
“I’d love to see the great and mighty Volikan’s handiwork. I imagine the nursery is coming along?”
