Page 80 of Hunt Me

“She is my fated mate.”

Ezra stopped in his tracks and eyed King Alesi warily. “And how have you confirmed this phenomenon?”

“She drank from me, I felt a pull, and then our hearts started beating as one.”

“That changes things. No wonder the two of you have been… untoward.” Luka smiled for the first time since returning from their retreat. “You both have a strong will to protect your version of love for one another. You love her and your unborn child so greatly that you’re willing to part with them to ensure their safety. Her version of love is keeping your family intact by any means necessary. I think the trauma of losing Anastasia and never having the chance to procreate clouds your judgment. I must confess that my initial reaction was to send Matilda away, but I have an unrelenting feeling that she will not forfeit no matter how many tantrums you throw. However, her reasoning for fighting may have changed after the dead child comment; whatever that means—don’t tell me. She will fight for her pride—to prove to you and every being who would dare doubt her. I am troubled.”

“What ails you, Ezra?”

“Her pride may be her downfall. You must fix this, Luka.”

“How do I fix something that may be irrevocably broken?”

“It is a simple solution, really. Believe in her like she believes in herself.”

“And if she falls? What will become of me?”

Ezra looked Luka in the eyes, wanting to leave no room for misinterpretation. “Then I will be merciful and end you myself.”

Luka went still. For a long moment, he could only stare at the man who had stood beside him through a century of triumph and loss. Ezra knew better than anyone what Anastasia’s death had done to him. He knew what another such loss would cost.

Luka swallowed against the sudden tightness in his throat and lowered his gaze.

“Thank you,” he murmured. “I don’t think I could live through another loss.”

“You’re welcome. I must return before Matilda takes off with the carriage. I take it you’ll catch up with the Marquises and return with them after the announcement?”

“Hell will freeze over before I cram myself into a carriage with them. I’ll commandeer a horse from one of the guards. Leave me with two guards and take the rest.”

“Yes, my King. One more thing: Matilda requested her belongings be returned to her personal quarters. Shall I—”

“Do as she requests.”

“Yes, my King. Be safe on your journey,” Ezra answered with a slight bow.

“Be well, Ezra.”

Ezra returned to the carriage, where he found Matilda staring blankly out the window. “Matilda, he—”

“I heard everything,” she whispered, tapping her jeweled ears.

“He is sorrowful and regretful for the words he spoke.”

“So it seems.”

“Are you not afraid of dying?” Ezra pressed.

“No.”

“Why not?”

The carriage finally staggered onward, turning to return to the castle. “Because I suspect our king wouldn’t let me go so easily.”

***

“We shouldn’t be down here,” Ezra hissed, repeatedly glancing over his shoulder, fearful they would be caught.

“Why not? King Alesi himself gave us permission.”