Page 54 of Ruby Red Sky

He shook his head. “East coast. New York City from what I understand. I sent one of the Kakians to verify and that is what he reported.” He paused. “Mind you, these demons aren’t always reliable.”

Nodding, I replied, “I’m aware. They are also aware of the consequences of false information.”

“Indeed.” Kalix's eyes glowed with excitement for a moment.

“Did you speak to Kiam yourself?” After the question left my mouth, I regretted asking it.

He gave me a knowing look. “Very briefly. Only about his task.”

“Mm. Thank you for informing me.”

Straightening in my chair, I began rolling the scroll back up. I placed it beside the others and opened my laptop, bringing up a map of Manhattan.

“Kalix,” I stopped him when he placed his hand on the door. “Do you have a woman?”

“I do not. I am expected to take one. Annalise doesn’t like the idea of me ruling the north kingdom single.”

Such a contemplative mood hadn’t overtaken me in years. “Good luck with that.”

He let out a short laugh. “I won’t be plagued as you, don’t worry.” He smirked roughly, his muscles stiff with an unfamiliar expression.

I gestured for him to exit. Our Queen was planning on sending him away soon, most likely this week. It was beyond me what she was waiting for.

He swiveled his head to face me again. “Our Queen would like an audience with you at your convenience.”

Kiam’s abrupt departure still grated at me. Kalix may leave just as suddenly, but that did not matter to me nearly as much. Besides, I knew without a doubt he would consult me prior.

“Thank you,” I replied.

Restless, I decided to go now and see what she wanted. I stood up from my seat as Kalix left, the door shutting softly behind him. I grabbed my suit jacket and put it on before I powered down the laptop.

When I stepped out of the room, my blood ran hot the same time her scent filled my head. I glanced to the right, spotting Cassia and Katarina slowly wandering in the opposite direction.

The skirt of Cassia’s gown trailed behind her along the floor, and I admired her shape, the tight waistline of the dress highlighting her supple curves. Her head tilted back as she laughed at something her slave said, and the motion of her silky hair released more of her fragrance, teasing me.

I hadn’t spoken a word to her since the day she screamed at me and walked away.

There was nothing to say.

Another man touched her, no matter his intentions, soiling her skin. Her bond to me should have made such an act disgusting and maybe it did, but she didn’t object. Her behavior was unacceptable in many ways, and I didn’t know what to do.

What I was supposed to do was well known, but I wasn’t going to be without her.

Cassia’s posture stiffened slightly while her head turned to the side just a fraction. She sensed me watching. She and Katarina continued on their way while she fought against the urge to look at me.

I could have forced her. I could have gone and planted myself directly in her path and made her do my will. But I didn’t. She would come to me, it was inevitable. In the meantime, I had to accept that my bride-to-be found me lacking.

* * *

Annalise was in her chambers, lounging on a sofa reading while her favored slave played with her nipples. When she saw me, she sprung up, sending the man to the floor in a tumble.

She kicked him, effectively clearing her path, and approached me as I bowed. “Lukas, thank you for coming so promptly.”

I didn’t wait for her signal and stood up. “You’re welcome, my Queen,” I said, as she graced me with a smile.

“Boy," she snapped her fingers in the air, “get us something to drink.”

He mumbled, “Yes, my Queen.”