Anyone who thought his grief was real was a fool.
“I would like to say a few words about my grandfather, our late king.” Luka swallowed. “As many of you know, my parents were taken from me at a young age.” Luka’s hands fisted on the stand, his knuckles turning white. It took all my restraint to not get up and stand by his side, to place my hand over his as he spoke.
But this was something he needed to do on his own.
“After my father’s death, my grandfather took me under his wing, he became a father figure to me after I lost my own, my mother was in no condition to be a mother then.” Luka looked down at the stand. “My grandfather would be the first one to tell you he wasn’t a good enough father to his own children, he relied on my grandmother. He frequently told me he had no idea what he was doing—raising a grief-stricken teenager. But I had to give it to him, I think he did a pretty good job.” He smiled slightly.
“He was there for me when I needed him. He supported me, cared about me, loved me—and helped me crawl out of the hole of grief from losing both of my parents in such a short period of time. It is because of him I met my wonderful wife and mate, Lennox Adair. He strongly supported our marriage.” His gaze slipped to mine for a second before returning to the crowd.
“I wish we had more time together. I am still trying to process his sudden death. I’m as shocked as you all; he was in perfect health. It makes no sense—it never will—death is tricky that way, but I grieve with you.”
Lorenzo stiffened, his back going straight in his seat.
“Lennox and I both grieve with you for our late king.I’m thankful I was able to make it here in time to mourn with you all, but also to celebrate his life and see him put to peace. Rest well, grandfather.”
Red crept up Lorenzo’s neck as Luka finished, but his face remained impassive, his eyes tracking Luka as he sat back at my side.
I leaned in and whispered in his ear, taking his hand back in mine. “He’d be proud of you.”
“Thank you.” He brought our joined hands to his lips, kissing the back of my hand before resting them on his thigh.
The priestess returned to the stand, continuing on with the ceremony.
When she reached the end, we all followed her out into the courtyard at the back of the palace.
Luka and I stood, hand in hand, as we watched the guards light the pyre.
Flames licked up the box encasing Arlo’s body, smoke billowed up into the air.
We watched in silence until nothing but smoldering ashes remained of the late Blood King.
“We’re so glad the two of you could make it.” Adreona’s arm was looped through Lorenzo’s. “It was such a pleasant surprise.” She smiled tightly.
“We wouldn’t have missed it,” My hand tightened on Luka’s arm. “It was a miracle we made it with such short notice.”
Lorenzo’s body stiffened.
“I do wish we could stay longer, but unfortunately, we have to get back to Alethens.” Adreona stiffened. “I have lots to catch up on after being gone for so long.”
“You’re not staying?” Lorenzo asked. It was typical in allthe courts for there to be a celebration of life after a funeral. Sometimes it was a simple dinner; sometimes the celebration went on for days. We didn’t know what Lorenzo had planned for his father, but we had no intention of finding out.
“We don’t want to overstay our welcome,” Luka countered.
“Heads might roll if we do,” I added.
A muscle ticked in Lorenzo’s jaw, and Declan’s wings twitched behind him from where he stood beside me. He had joined us after the ceremony, sticking to the back of the temple during to keep a better eye on things and assess any potential threats.
Luka guided me with a hand on my back. “I’m sure we will see you two soon.”
He leaned in and whispered in my ear, “I need to get you out of here before you get us in trouble.”
I smirked. “Sorry if I was crass, but I couldn’t resist.”
“No need to apologize, you know I love your violent side, but we need to stick to the plan.”
I dipped my head. “You’re right, let’s get the fuck out of here.”
29
