Page 60 of The Queen’s Bodyguard

Either Theora was getting better at this pretense or he’d flustered her again—he could practically feel the warmth of her blush from where he sat.

“There now,” said Apollo, nodding his finger at Argos, “that sounds like a debate I can get behind: Can love be political? Is it political, regardless of intention? Let’s discuss.”

“Marriage,” said Venita, “is always political for people in our station. It’s a union that benefits the greater good, rather than both parties. It’s been that way for hundreds of years, and will continue to be that way, because it’s the only method that benefits the colony. Love has nothing to do with a strong alliance.”

Apollo raised a brow at Argos. “Have you met my sister, the biggest cynic in Aranea?”

“It’s called being a realist, dear brother.”

“A realist would’ve stopped at the third child instead of the seventh.” Apollo laughed, managing to finally pull a grin out of Venita. “Are you trying to fully staff a new business I don’t know about?”

Despite his jab, he helped Venita readjust the cushion at her low back, because of course he did. This guy was good. It was no wonder Theora seemed to worship him. If Argos hadn’t smelled the traitor all over him, he might’ve believed he was worth getting to know.

But for the moment, he was just glad Apollo had shut Venita up for him so he could seamlessly change the subject.

“You look uncomfortable, my love,” he said to Theora, patting his leg as casually as he could, despite the urge to laugh at the absurdity of the situation.

The look in her eye said she clearly wanted to strangle him. “Thank you, darling. You’re always so attentive.” She placed her hand on his shoulder to balance herself as she stepped around his leg and sat on his thigh. She even leaned close, her breath brushing his skin as if she would kiss his ear. Instead she whispered, “I’m going to kill you for this.”

Argos didn’t bother to hold in his chuckle—it would make them look all the more convincing. He grabbed Theora by the hip, feeling her blood pump hot as he pulled her closer. Despite her threat, she leaned against him more comfortably than she ever had, resting her hand against his chest.

“Good girl,” he purred in her ear, feeling her shiver at his praise. “You’re learning.”

“Don’t annoy me, Argos. This is not an invitation to go overboard.”

“I think we’re already there…”

He could practically feel fire and brimstone from Venita’s direction.

“Argos,” Apollo cut in, and Argos wasn’t sure if he was grateful or about to be annoyed, “tell us. What drew you to Theora in the first place?”

Argos had completely forgotten to get around to thinking of something they had in common. Although, he really didn’t have to think too hard now that he knew her better. “It was the care she showed for her people. All her people.” He found Theora looking at him, a bit of shock in her eyes mixed with thankfulness and…admiration. He trailed his fingers over the edge of her ear, grinning as he felt her lean into his touch. “Warriors included.”

A shudder of pleasure ran through his spine as Theora began playing with his hair. Running her manicured nails against his scalp, tugging gently at the strands.

Fuck. Don’t get hard with her on your lap. This was a mission, not an excuse for unsolicited harassment. Still, she was far better at this than she’d led him to believe—leaning against him, one hand against his chest, the other playing in his hair.

It felt so good he almost forgot he was supposed to be paying attention to Apollo, who had rung the bell to resume service.

“Forgiveness, Your Grace,” said Venita, “but I must speak my mind—”

“Cease,” Theora whispered, for her husband’s ears only, pressing her hand against his chest.

Argos hadn’t even moved yet, the small ripple near his temple the only alert that his magic was acting on its own. The violent urge within him muted. Settled. He took a breath and looked at Theora, whose heart was pounding so hard he thought she might be panicked. But in her eyes was nothing but shock and relief.

And all the while, Venita continued her tirade, completely unaware of what had just transpired.

“You’re going to love the next course,” Apollo interrupted his sister, taking hold of her hand.

Argos settled back on the bench, and his wife huddled closer to him, as if drained from the very experience. There was no way to tell her how proud he was of her except to rub her back.

She had commanded his magic like a true handler.

Chapter 17

Theora

Theora had been having a nice time, until their tram pulled up for their excursion and she heard the sound of running water and saw the massive wrought iron gate set in stone. She couldn’t help but think that someone in their party was deliberately making this trip as uncomfortable for her as possible.