Page 47 of His Realm

“Why, he’s the son of Leda and Decimus, of course.”

I had to…think.

I got up, walked to the balcony balustrade, and looked out at the buildings and the sea beyond, taking a few moments to process, then returned to them.

“I think you broke him,” Zev grumbled at Sabira.

“Well, it’s not like it’s a secret.”

“Does Varic know?” I asked her.

Her brows crinkled. “You know…I have no idea. I’m unsure why he would or wouldn’t. It’s not important.”

“How can you say that?”

“Because my mother was a courtesan,” Zev said. “So I’m as meaningless to Decimus as Alrek is to the king.”

I crossed my arms.

“Well now, that’s not exactly true, is it?” Sabira scolded Zev.

He shook his head.

“Tell me from the beginning,” I said to Sabira. “Please.”

“Of course, my dear, whatever you want.”

“We could go back to my chambers,” I suggested.

“Oh, I’m sorry, Jason, did I miss you receiving the king’s leave?”

She was right. He hadn’t released me. “No.”

“He doesn’t care about us discussing ancient history. It’s only the here and now that seem to be eating him up.”

“Do you know what’s wrong?”

“I have an idea, but let’s speak of Zev, shall we?”

“Yes, please.”

“Is this really⁠—”

“Yes,” I snapped, glaring at him before refocusing on Sabira. “Sorry. Please continue.”

“Well—”

“Wait one moment,” I murmured, then to Zev, “If this is really bothering you, I don’t want to⁠—”

“It’s fine,” he grumbled. “It’s just ancient history you shouldn’t bother with.”

“Okay, good,” I rushed out, returning my attention to Sabira. “I love history.”

She grinned at me. “Yes, I know, and it’s very kind of you to worry about Zev’s feelings. Most would only care about having their curiosity sated.”

“Well, he’s my champion. I wouldn’t want him to think he wasn’t special to me.”

Zev groaned, and Sabira chuckled.