“It’s treason,” I bite out with a shake of my head.
“This is my fault. I was the one who suggested that we come here. Maybe we should leave.” He watches me closely, waiting for me to admit what is happening between Selene and me. We’re both too terrified to admit the truth, so we keep poking it.
“Running away from a problem doesn’t fix it.”
Tristen nudges me. “Are you sure about that? Nero and I got away with a lot of shit as teens.”
“No, you didn’t; Ryker and I cleaned it up.”
“Those were the good times.” He whistles. “Come on, let’s eat and focus on the biggest problem we have which, by the way, you controlled your time-weaving. That’s great.”Tristen stands, extending his hand and pulling me up.
“Controlled is a big word. I think when he mentioned Everett, the time magic grew calm. It was odd.”
He drags me toward the hall. “It’s still something to be happy about. Speaking of the fam, I’m gonna send a message to them, see how they’re doing. The mail goes out this afternoon. Want me to add anything from you?”
You can peer at me for hours. I refuse to tell you what I fear is happening, Tris. I’ll handle it. I always do.
“Just tell them everything is good.” I swing the door open. My cheeks grow red from the heat of the kitchen. The scent of oven-baked meats fans out. But now I’m not hungry.
“Your definition of good scares the shit out of me,” Tristen replies warily.
“General!” I flinch. “Just the man I was looking for. Come.” King Galen strides down the hall, waving me over. The soldiers cafeteria is within easy walking distance of his dining room. It’s not so he can eat with his soldiers on rare occasions. The location was strategic, ensuring his men were nearby if needed.
The shine of his leather causes my eyes to squint. “I wanted to invite you to the war council this morning.”
“War council?”I thought I had ended your war.
Galen pauses at the insinuation in my tone. A group of nobles stands behind him, watching.
Tristen coughs. I dip my chin. “That is a high honor, King Galen. I fear I’m not worthy of such knowledge,” I say to ease the blow of my words.
Galen plays it off by laughing. “I suppose I should rename it now that the war is finished, but it has such a nice ring to it.”
War often does, until the bodies pile up and the scent of rotting flesh breaches Blackthorn’s high walls.
“Come, you might provide valuable insight,” Galen demands.
Shit!
“What of Queen Selene?” I ask.I need to be with her!
Galen’s eyes find Tristen. “Cover her security until the General returns.”
“Absolutely.” Tristen bows.
Galen and his entourage leave, filling the hall with chuckles and morning gossip. I peer at Tristen. “I’m good with the ladies, don’t worry,” he assures me as his goofy, lopsided smile fills my eyes. “Hey, it’s fine. Go.” He nods, but his hand is on his sword.
I fear the trenches of Blackthorn will alter me far more indefinitely than the battlefield did.
Chapter
Twenty
Titus
My lungs shudder as the massive doors slide shut. I’ve never been so out of my element. This guy’s hands are so smooth they look like butter. What the heck is he wearing? His purple velvet suit looks more suited for an armchair.
War’s requiem is blocked by the castle walls, allowing them to dance like nothing matters. The insult coats my tongue with a sour tang.
