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That frown reappeared. “I will have words with Des. You were invited some days ago.”
“Another undelivered message,” she said.
“So it seems,” he responded, his voice rather cold. Lenore thoroughly expected his next words to be off with his head. She really didn’t envy Des at the moment.
Instead, Baris surprised them both by saying, “I would like to have you with me. Since I lost my bonded…” He cleared his throat before continuing. “A king shouldn’t admit when he feels vulnerable. It isn’t done. My karu was my companion since I was ten years old. I miss him.”
Lenore reached for his nearest hand. Too late did she realize it was his right hand. She tried to drop it, but he held on tight.
“I want someone by my side who I trust. I want you,” he said.
Clearly, this meant a lot to him. She was happy to accompany him. “How can I say no?”
CHAPTER TWENTY
BARIS
The day was clear and bright, good weather for the winter ceremony.
The temple complex of Miria was a short flight from the palace. Lenore remained silent as she watched the snow-covered landscape melt away into the dull brown of dying foliage.
Baris disliked the silence. He did not trust it. Lenore was always so full of questions—to remain silent had to be a sign that she was unhappy.
“Are you warm enough?” he asked. The temperature in the flyer was comfortable, but humans had a higher body temperature.
“Very. Thank you,” she answered.
“Did you not like your gift?”
“I love my gift,” she said, touching the black gem-studded hair comb. It was a simple design. The royal collection had far more elaborate pieces, but this was suitable for the somber mood of the day.
Baris took a great deal of pleasure in seeing Lenore wear his jewels. He wanted to cover her in jewels and precious metals until they dripped off her.
“Is your outfit satisfactory?” he asked.
“It’s lovely.” Lenore ran a hand down the front of her blouse. It was an unadorned black silk, an inappropriate material for the cold palace but suitable for the warmer climate of Miria. He had no great love or understanding of fashion. He wore what the tailor made him. He did, however, understand the need for presentation and drama during public events, and the current garments she wore were rather humble.
“If you are concerned that it is too plain, this is a somber occasion. It is suitable,” he said. He himself wore simple black and a black feather mantle.
“Baris.” Lenore reached for his hand and squeezed. “I’m just nervous. I don’t want to mess up today.”
“Impossible.”
A tired smile tugged at her lips. “Oh, you’d be amazed at the way I could fuck up. I could trip over my own feet. Sneeze when we’re supposed to be all quiet and respectful. My stomach could start growling.”
“I can remedy hunger.” Baris extended his hand to the nearest guard, who immediately handed him a ration bar. “This will keep your stomach from complaining.”
“I seriously doubt that.” Lenore accepted the bar and sniffed the unopened package, frowning as if disgusted. “I’m not that hungry.”
“We sit and admire the show as the priests ring bells and light candles. There is nothing to mishandle,” he said, keeping his tone reassuring. “I am thankful you are with me. It would be difficult to be alone today.”
She rewarded his little truth with a smile. It lit up her entire being and made her eyes sparkle. “I’m glad to be here.”
“We are nearing Miria,” Baris said, pointing out the window.
The temple complex of Miria sprawled over a large area, all protected as royal land. A portion was open to the public, but the large majority was off-limits, as it was a nesting habitat for karu. Only a select few outside the royal family were given permission to enter the private reserve.
As the flyer approached, Baris spotted the temple where, when he was ten years old, he presented himself to the karu. He sliced the palm of his hand to indicate willingness for a bond and waited to be chosen. His karu arrived almost immediately, as if he had been waiting for Baris.
