Pulling in a deep breath, she bowed forward to receive the magical charm. I placed the gleaming strand over her head, letting the pendant slide into position at her exposed throat. When the necklace touched her skin, it vanished, fusing within her.
A gasp escaped her lips, and her hand flew to her neck. “It's gone.” Awe whispered through her words. “But I can feel it. It's now a part of me.”
“Yes, it is, high lady.”
I gave her a smile before moving on to Moira and Faelith, repeating the process with each of them.
The ceremony concluded, the atmosphere in the room full of excitement tainted with anger.
I'd made friends today.
And I'd fanned the flames of the rage burning inside my enemies.
49
REYLA
“Court is adjourned,” an attendant announced, her voice ringing in the room. “Please reconvene again tomorrow for the crowning of our new queen and the festivities to follow.”
While everyone but our guards left the throne room, my new ladies-in-waiting followed Lord Briscalar, who’d give them instructions and assure they were granted full status with the court.
Merrick left his throne and stepped over to stand in front of me. He lifted my hands and kissed them, his eyes locked on mine. “Well done. Very well done.” He tugged me into his arms, holding me tight enough I could barely grab a breath. “Are you sure you’re alright?” Leaning back, he traced his fingertip across my throat, but other than a slight ache deep inside, his magichad healed me.
“I’m fine.”
Shadows remained in his eyes. “You amaze me. Always.”
“Not what you expected when you asked for a willing bride, now is it?” I quipped. Inside, I still shook, but damn if I’d let that show to anyone who might still be watching.
“I thank the fates every single moment for bringing you into my life.”
Lord Briscalar stepped through the door behind the thrones and came around to hover nearby, clearing his throat.
Merrick grinned. “I think someone needs you, my wildfire queen.”
What about Merrick? Did he need me too?
I wouldn’t ask. Not yet. “I believe you’re right.”
Merrick's lips met mine in a kiss that surged through me, threatening to ignite the air around us. His hand brushed against my cheek, sending a shiver across my skin, but my eyes fluttered open.
Lord Briscalar studied the floor, the thrones, the ceiling, and the carpet marching up the aisle. With a soft exhale, I stepped out of Merrick’s embrace. We shared a smile that showed both of us were affected by our kiss, a smile that held the promise of more.
The corner of Merrick's mouth quirked into a knowing grin, the air between us charged with longing.
“Will I see you again today?” he asked.
“I suppose I should attend dinner.” As much as I wanted to avoid Erisandra, I couldn’t. She was part of this court, and if I didn’t face her often, she’d take control.
“I’ll join you. Hold your hand if you want. Snarl at my mother and her ladies.”
“And this is why I . . .” I couldn’t name my feelings eager to break free, also not yet.
He stroked his knuckles down my face, his gaze locked on mine. “Being near you makes the impossible seem within reach. Since we’ve met . . . You’ve given me hope, Reyla.”
“Hope whispers of dawn even within the darkest night.”
He startled. “Where did you hear that?”
