“Is that what you were doing when you spoke to my mate?” I muttered.
Her eyes cut up to meet mine from the side, her gaze flashing, but then she returned to the corridor ahead of us.
“Iam not your enemy, Donavyn.”
Debatable.
At least I had the self-control not to say it aloud.
“My offer to help the girl was genuine. Despite what you may think, Iwantto see her succeed. And I’m certain I could help.”
“She needs time, and training, and focus—and to stay close to me.” I still didn’t entirely trust the king not to attempt to separate us if he felt it might improve Bren’s chances to infiltrate. But perhaps even without that. I had observed Alexi’s tendency to want control overanythinghe perceived could exceed his own influence or power in a person’s life. Even petty things. He didn’t take kindly to the thought of anyone’s loyalty towards him being divided. He was still gruff with me for not telling him about Bren and my matebond earlier, because it reminded him that my priorities had shifted.
As I’d admitted to Bren, he wasrightto feel threatened by her, at least in that way. I prayed daily there would never be a time I was forced to choose between protecting her, and protecting the king.
Thank GodAlexi understood that bond was supernatural, and couldn’t be broken by external forces. I shuddered to think what he might do if he believed there was a way to eradicate it.
“She needs to understand the waters she’ll be swimming in,” Diaan said curtly.
I shook my head. “Our story is that she is a simple companion. If she isn’t a noble, they wouldn’t expect her to understand the court.”
“All the more reason she should—so she can play the game they don’t know she’s playing.”
I ground my teeth. “I don’t deny that you could offer insight, but there simply isn’t time,” I said firmly.
“Very well, then tell me what you need. To get her ready, and to give yourselves both the best chance of success in this venture.” She met my eyes, unwavering.
I waited until a gaggle of servants to pass so I wouldn’t be overheard, before responding.
“I need time to prepare her, find clothing for her that’s suitable for the Palace. And a fucking angel on my shoulder to ensure neither of us is killed before we can get to the bottom of this.”
Diaan gave a husky laugh at the angel bit. “I can’t do much for the divine protection, but I will work on Alexi for you. Don’t worry, his pride is wounded, so he’s impatient. But once he recognizes the wisdom and his own success in it, he’ll shift on the timing—and I can help with the dresses, as well.”
I eyed her from the side, unwilling to trust her, but grateful for the help. “Thank you,” I muttered.
“You’re welcome.”
“May I be released now?” I said tightly.
Diaan sighed, but as we reached the next intersection of hallways, she patted my arm, thanked me in a normal voice for my escort, then let me go, sweeping off into the next corridor, calling for a servant to notify a guard that she’d decided to visit the library.
The servant hared off in the direction from which we’d come, and I walked on freely, almost trotting myself, relieved to be out of her grip.
But my hackles didn’t settle until I’d turned the corner and could no longer feel eyes on the back of my neck.
6. On the Mat
SOUNDTRACK:Start a Fireby Cult to Follow
~ BREN ~
A garbled grunt broke in my chest as Gil’s flat palm smacked to the center of my chest, shoving me back over the foot he’d already planted behind my heel. Then, as I cursed in frustration and over-balanced, he plowed me flat to the mat.
I forgot to tuck my chin and my head clonked so hard my teeth rattled. My skull rang, and my vision doubled for a breath.
Four male voices raised sympathetic hisses andOooosas I groaned and covered my face in both hands, letting my body go slack because he’d already won.
“You okay, Bren?” Gil asked carefully.
