“Callum?”
“I… I need a minute,” he said, holding up a finger.
There was a knock at the door, and Riordan strode toward the adjoining chamber.
“He sent me back to Ryker with instructions to destabilize the Unseelie Court from within. He more or less threatened my life if I didn’t comply, and I suspect he has someone watching me.”
“This is too much,” Callum said. “How is he even alive? What about your Ma?”
I ignored Callum’s questions, and he seemed to sense my urgency.
“Listen to me, Callum. I know it’s a lot, but we have little time before Riordan returns.”
My eyes darted toward the entryway to ensure he was still occupied. “I have no intention of helping the Crimson Enclave, but I do intend to undermine Ryker’s authority. I need to divert his attention elsewhere so I can slip away undetected.”
“What about the mate bond?”
“I’m working on that. The woman I told you about, the Blood Fae, she was able to conceal it, so I’m hoping there’s a way to sever it completely.”
“This is risky, Cadence.”
“I know, which is why you have to leave. I can’t let Ryker use you against me.”
“You already know I’m not leaving without you.”
“Callum —” I began, but he cut me off.
“It’s not an option, so tell me what the plan is.”
Peering into Callum’s eyes, I could see the determination settled there. Nothing would dissuade him from his path.
“I am waiting for an opportunity to present itself.”
“That’s it?”
“I don’t have much freedom here, Callum,” I said, irritation lacing my tone.
“No, I suppose you don’t.”
Before I could continue, Ryker entered the room with Riordan trailing after him. He marched toward me, his narrowed gaze never leaving mine. When he reached me, he took my hand in his and pulled me to my feet.
His mouth descended on mine in a scorching kiss, as his fingers gripped my nape.
“Morning, wife,” he rumbled against my lips, and the sound of his voice left me wanting.
Then I remembered we were not alone and fought to remind myself that I hated the man.
“I hope you’ve eaten because we have a busy day ahead of us.”
I arched my brow.
“Our presence is required at the council meeting.”
For once, I didn’t protest Ryker’s assumption that he could drag me wherever he pleased.
Because he’d just handed me the exact opportunity I had been waiting for.
Chapter Ten
