Page 69 of Uncrowned

“Find Redmond. Send him in.”

“I will.”

My lids narrowed as I lowered, brushing back her hair. It was dried together, matted with… cum. It flaked and came apart as I crushed it between my fingers.

Death.

It came easily enough to me. I didn’t mind taking lives, but I hadn’t ever enjoyed it. Other than John and Allen, it was my job. But this…

The door closed, only to open.

I turned, seeing Redmond step in. He immediately went down to one knee.

“Where are the guards that did this?”

“Being prepared for The Judic.”

I could have cursed at their luck. They were saved… for now. “How many?”

“Two. There were four total that were there, but only two committed the act. The second had only started when they realized…”

“What?”

I was shaking as I took a step towards him.

“Your name, Sire. They put it together. The two witnesses immediately put a stop to the assault and called it in. She—Penelope. She was frantic for you. I didn’t know what to do but interrupt your meeting.”

And I’d kept him there an hour… She had probably been calling for me for what felt like an eternity for her, and I hadn’t come.

I did this. I knew I shouldn’t have brought her here. Had I really trusted she wouldn’t try to run? Had I been such a fool to believe she’d stay without some sort of fight? She said what happened between us was a mistake. She clearly didn’t want this—she didn’t want me. Not like I wanted her. But I wasn’t letting her go. Ever.

“Tell Mr. Prescott we’ll have to reschedule. Then, prepare the guards.”

“They’re already⁠—”

“Not those two. The entire fucking guard. Prepare them all. I will address them shortly.”

“The… Yes. Yes, Sire.”

“Redmond.”

He eased to his feet, hesitantly meeting my eyes.

“This is on me, not you. Go. Prepare them. It’s time to introduce my future queen so this never happens again.”

“Of course. I’m truly sorry.” He paused. “I’m afraid after this, she may never accept⁠—”

My hand shot up, not wanting to hear what I already knew.

“Prepare them.”

Redmond spun, leaving me to turn back to the bed. I returned to my seat at her side, brushing back her hair, more trying to calm myself than to supply comfort.

“I’m sorry.” I lowered kissing her forehead. “I did this. I shouldn’t have left you. Wounds, I can bandage. Escape… I can find you. This.” I stopped, squeezing my eyes shut. “I can’t fix this, but I’m going to try.”

The burning grew, and the room blurred. Anger had me fisting the length of her hair.

“Penelope.” I cleared my throat, hating how her name came out sounding weak. “Penelope, wake up.”