Page 65 of Ruling the Green

“You kidnapped a woman to marry you?”

“It’s heartwarming how well you think of me. I’m touched, truly.”

“Answer me.”

“No, I didn’t kidnap Serin. She was kidnapped to put in place of the daughter of a powerful man I was supposed to marry.”

“And she just… went along with it?”

“She was drugged.”

“But now you know… and you’re still married to her?”

“It’s complicated. She’s safest with me now. Don’t you think I would have gotten her out if I could have?”

“I don’t know what to think with the Unseelie Court lately. The things I’m hearing…”

“They’re probably all true. And worse.”

“And you don’t expect an all-out war? You can’t allow women to be kidnapped and sold into marriage. What is wrong with you?”

“I don’t have time to explain my plans to you. Actually, you don’t have time. If word gets out that you crossed into this realm—with draca no less—then you will be in a dungeon before noon, listening to your father ripping parts of your little empath off, piece by piece until he begs to be given the true death.”

Something flickered across Celestine’s eyes.

“Listen to me. Anything you think you know about the Dark Court no longer applies.”

Cece took a step forward. “Are you safe?”

“Worried about me?”

“Stop being a dick and answer the question.”

“Am I safe? No. Absolutely not. But I’m working on it. And I really don’t need intrusion from the Light Court right now.”

“Is there anything I can do?”

“Aside from turning around and dragging your ass back across the border? No.”

“Are you at risk from outside or from our father?” she asked, her voice a whisper.

“Are you implying it could only be one?”

“Jet…”

“Don’t pity me, Big Sister,” I said, shaking my head. “I have plans. You and I both know nothing will get in the way of me and my throne. Not even our piece of shit father.”

“I believe you think you’ve got this. But I’m worried you’re more cocky than strategic. One man can’t overtake an entire kingdom.”

“You underestimate me.”

“I hope so.”

“Just tell your mother and grandmother to give me some time. I’m not saying don’t prepare for war, because if I’m gone, war is inevitable. Prepare. But wait. Because if my plans come to fruition, there won’t be a war.”

She watched me for a moment, then nodded.

“Okay. But no more kidnappings. No more stepping into my realm.”