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He showed a greater reaction than I did, and the men watching us noticed.
Some frowned a little. Others looked at me with greater appreciation. And I held their curious stares as I clamped my bleeding hand to that of my father’s. Our blood beaded and dripped onto the carpet below, squeezed out by the savage grip we used.
“By blood we rule, by blood we die, by blood we stay loyal and true.” Our voices blended.
And just like that...I officially became Aslan Kara.
* * * * *
“You look tired, my son.” Cem came to my side where I’d invoked the shadows to hide me. Smoke continued curling, and the conversation kept flowing. We’d all moved into the cavernous dining hall where the heavy beams, rich artwork of mythical beasts and beauties watched us eat off fine china and crystal.
I’d eaten but not much.
I’d drunk but not enough.
My hand throbbed beneath its fresh bandage, and the matching one on my father’s palm bound us even tighter together.
I didn’t know what was expected of me or where I was supposed to go. I knew where I’d come from, but...he’d promised I wouldn’t have to return. Then again, he’d said that before and I’d just spent two weeks having a ‘refresher’.
I’d passed his final test.
I’d accepted my place and forsook a past that belonged to the dead version of me.
“I would be grateful for a rest.” I nodded respectfully. “If you let me know where my new room is, I’ll gladly—”
“Oh no, you might have graduated to being named as my official heir, Aslan, but you will never be left to walk around unguarded.” His face softened a little. “Not because I don’t trust you, of course, but to protect you while your power is still new. There will be those looking to test you. And until you have earned their loyalty through your own merit and not just an oath, I want you protected at all times.”
“I understand.” I smiled. “I appreciate you thinking of my safety.”
His gaze flickered to my left leg and the way I fisted my cane.
Was there guilt in his eyes?
Perhaps a tiny shred of shame?
But then he blinked, and it was gone, replaced with pride and blinding love. He loved me while hurting me. And now he loved me while crowning me. I didn’t trust that love, but it was the only thing I’d been able to cling to while drowning in absolute agony.
“You did well today. Faultless, in fact. Continue behaving this impeccably and we will never have to go below again. How does that sound?”
My thighs turned to stone to prevent trembling. “I would appreciate that.”
The searing, slicing pain—
My heart dying thanks to excruciating electrocution—
Sweat drenched my back as I shoved the flashbacks where they belonged.
Into my past.
Where dead things rotted.
I was dead.
I was reborn.
I’m his.
“Good.” He slapped me on the back and snapped his fingers at two of his black-suited militia that guarded every room in this colossal mansion. “Escort my son back to his chambers. You know which one is his.”
