Page 17 of Uncrowned

“V.” Her smile softened, and I didn’t miss her biting her bottom lip. “I like that. Until tonight, V.”

Penelope disappeared from the window, and my lids narrowed as I watched Lord Allford head across the street. With every step he took, the pressure in me built.

I like you… Her words came back, looping inside me. Wrapping and tightening around the man I was becoming. Maybe… we can meet?

Before I could reign control over myself, I threw the car in drive, stomping the gas as I pulled from the parking space. My car lunged forward, and John spun, slamming his hands down on my hood as his terrified eyes met mine.

The smile that came at his fear spoke of threats far worse than being hit with my car. John’s brow creased, and his darting eyes studied my face with what appeared distant recognition. His lips parted, and hand by hand, he walked himself down the length of my sedan, the anxiousness never leaving his features as he kept turning back.

Maybe he recognized me. Maybe he didn’t. Either way, it was done. I couldn’t take back my actions.

I hit the button on my steering wheel, placing the phone in my cup holder as John reached the stairs that led up to Penelope’s porch. I took off fast, cursing my impulsivity. Control came as I let out a deep breath and hit the button on my steering wheel.

“Call Redmond.”

Ringing was immediate. Tighter, I gripped to the steering wheel, turning to head down the few blocks to my new home.

“Vaughn. Unavowed.”

“Not. Yet. I said soon. You push me. Have you spoke to The Judic. Are they ready?”

“Their judgement awaits. Their loyalties revolve around you, Sire. Give me the day and time and they’ll be ready.”

My teeth ground against each other at my impatience—my mistake. You wish to disappear? … I think so… I like you… Maybe… we can meet? “The timeline has folded. Prepare them for tonight.”

“It is done. Is there anything you need? Will you be returning here while we retrieve His Lordship?”

“I have to finish preparations at my new place. It shouldn’t take me long. I’m almost done. I’ll head that way once I’m finished. It’s time. We put the plans in motion tonight. Alert those who have sworn in on this task. Let them know the clock has started.”

A deep chuckle sounded. “And so it begins. I’ll make the announcement. We’ll be prepared for your arrival. Are you sure you don’t want to keep her here when the time comes?”

“I told you not until I’ve decided. Penelope may not be the one. Only when I choose, will I introduce her to her new life. Not a moment before.”

“But you said she was taking to you well. Even eager to speak with you. I told you⁠—”

“That means nothing, Redmond. I will not bring her to The Order yet. Maybe never.”

“Of course.”

“I’ll see you tonight.”

I ended the call, making it to my new place. It was close to the penthouse, but far enough away that I was safe. And it was a house. I wouldn’t think about how this was my first home, or that I’d bought it… for me. But I had, and where I knew those looking for me would stick to dwellings for a single man, I bought a home worth a small fortune. One with nine bedrooms, a garden, a pool… and an underground special room. It was a purchase no one would expect from me, and one, aimed more towards her.

Structure. Discipline.

I had spent my life planned out. Careful. I hadn’t waivered now. The truth was, although somewhere deep inside I wanted to impress Penelope, we both needed safety. More so now than ever. This house with its elite security system would assure that. My time as a free man was running out.

My father once said no crown was worth a life without love.

I never understood it.

I never wanted to.

What was love worth without a crown?

CHAPTER 7

Penelope