“Then, if you would excuse me, Your Majesty?”
“Yes, of course. Tell him I believe in King Jucai's innocence.”
“Yes, Your Majesty. Thank you for permitting my involvement.”
As I stood, Jucai's hand slid from my shoulder down to grab my hand. “I have not dismissed you.”
I froze. Once more, we garnered the attention of everyone in the room, including King Saric, who raised an eyebrow at me.
“I beg your pardon, Your Majesty. I forgot my manners. Would you excuse me to investigate this matter?”
Jucai lifted his chin and let go. “You are excused.”
I looked up and met King Saric's gaze, begging him with wide eyes to let Jucai's arrogance slide. I knew King Saric would see it as Jucai's attempt to establish dominance in another king's court. But in reality, he simply didn't want me to leave.
Luckilly, my king was not only the strongest Dragon in our dread, but he was also wise, discerning, and kind. He looked from me to Jucai and back. “Don't worry, Lord Nadar. I will see to King Jucai while you are gone. Honestly, we probably won't leave this room before you return.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty.”
“It has been centuries since I've been to the surface,” Jucai said.
“I imagine Zaru has changed a lot since you were last here.”
I slowly stepped away while the kings spoke. As I shut the door behind me, I once more caught Duke Daha's gaze. This time, I ignored it and left. After that display, it was surprising that he was the only one watching me.
I'd specifically asked Jucai not to behave that way in front of the King. The last thing I wanted was King Saric to think I had divided loyalties.
“Damn,” I muttered as I hurried away from the meeting room.
It felt as if I were running away. I'd only been in Kansu for two days, but Jucai had been with me nearly every minute of those days. It wasn't a hardship, but everyone needs some time apart. Even from handsome sea kings.
“Nadar!”
I recognized the voice and stopped long enough for him to catch up. “Hello, Lahi. How are you?”
The Eljaffna man smoothed his silk tunic and then his long, blond hair. “I'm well, thank you. I thought you were going to be gone for a while?”
“A trade ship was attacked, seemingly by Sea Dragons who wore the Ilshi crest. I returned with the Sea King to help resolve the issue.”
“Oh!” Lahi ran his elegant fingers down his throat.
It was an odd gesture, considering he was the blood drinker, not me. But Eljaffna found throat stroking erotic, no matter who did it. Barely holding back my grimace, I waited for him to continue. Lahi and I had been lovers once, but I'd grown weary of his constant need for attention.
Hold on. Jucai is also in constant need.
It felt different with Jucai. He didn't need to be fawned over. He needed to fuck. Lahi was clingy while Jucai . . . Shit, he had just clung to me, too, hadn't he? Still, it was different. Jucai was a fish out of water in my court. I didn't blame him for wanting me to stay. Lahi, however, clung because he was jealous.Jucai . . . Damn, he also got jealous. No, there was a difference. I just needed to think of it.
“I'm glad you're back. I wanted to talk to you, Nadar.” Lahi lowered his voice into a sultry tone. “Don't you miss me? I miss you. Your powerful arms, your hard body, your plump ass. If you need me to be casual about things, I can.” He leaned closer. “I promise.”
Ah, yes, I remember now. That right there is the difference. Lahi was a whiny, dainty top—which annoyed me to no end. I love a beautiful man, but being beautiful doesn't mean you have to be a dainty flower. Jucai may cling and get jealous, but he was also a fucking monster hunter who could carry me like a baby.
“Lord Nadar, you don't have time for this.”
I jolted away from Lahi at the sound of that voice. It was one of Jucai's guards. “What are you doing here?”
“My king sent me to look after you.”
“Look after me?” I growled.
