The King’s Innocent Bride

“I did want to correct the guards,” the man says, raising his hands as if I might strike him. He looks like one good blow could kill him. I wouldn’t do that. If he is her uncle, I’m guessing she doesn’t want him to die. Though she was running from him. A million different reasons run through my mind, none of which are good. My rage towards this man rises. I clench my fist to stop myself from grabbing him.

I didn’t know I had it in me to feel such anger at things that might not even be true. “Why are you still here?” I ask the guard, who has finally come to his feet but hasn’t moved from the spot. He turns and takes off running. I clench my jaw, reminding myself to have a word with John about how things are being handled around here.

“Come,” I tell her uncle. “What is your name?” I ask as he follows me out of the hall and into my office. A few other guards follow in tow.

“Howard Eldor,” the man says weakly, making me wonder how he’s been able to keep my woman safe. I’m shocked someone hasn’t taken her for their own. I’m going to. But if anyone else tried to do the same I’d skin them alive. I dare someone to stop me from taking her, though.

I hold my hand up to the guards, not wanting them to come in with us. I can handle the man on my own. I can tell the guard wants to say something but steps back and shuts the double doors. I also don’t want anyone else to hear more about Kate. I don’t even care for the idea of someone speaking her name. A possessiveness for her has already taken hold of me. Maybe once I make her mine, it’ll cool somewhat. I know I can’t hide her away in my castle. Or maybe I can. I try to push the barbaric thought away, knowing my mom will fight me like hell on the issue.

I’m surprised word hasn’t already spread to her about my reaction to Kate. I know my mom has ears everywhere. She probably already knows, which means I’m losing time now. I need to find out what this man knows about my girl so I can go and check on her. I’m feeling more on edge each moment I’m away from her. How can such a small thing have a hold on me already? My dad’s words enter my mind, reminding me to never question what he says again.

“Why was she running from you?” I walk over to my desk and lean up against it.

Howard starts to sit. “Well—”

“I didn’t invite you to sit.” I fold my arms over my chest. He pauses for a moment before swallowing hard. I raise my eyebrows for him to continue.

“Her mom and dad. My brother died when she was little. She was raised by my mother in the States until five years ago. She passed as well, and I was given custody of Kate.” My heart breaks for my girl thinking of all the loss she’s experienced. I know it is something I could help her with. My family. Our family soon.

My eyes roam over the man. She looks nothing like her uncle. The only thing they have in common is they are both built small.

“Why was she running from you?”

The man’s eyes go a little wild, showing fear, likely because of how I reacted to the guard who had made her fall. He knows I’m not fucking around. “Don’t lie to me,” I grit out in warning. “I’ll be able to tell.” It’s the truth. My own dad calls me the human lie detector. It’s a skill I’ve had for as long as I can remember.

His eyes shoot back to mine. “I’ve heard,” he mumbles. “I’m not sure, to be completely honest.”

“Half-truth.” I push off my desk, clearing the distance between us. He takes a few steps back, but I’m on him.

“You can have her. She’s yours,” he squeals out like a little pig. That only makes me madder. I have a feeling this isn’t the first time he’s made the offer or thought of using her as a pawn.

“Titus.”

My eyes snap over to John, who is standing in the doorway of my office. I can tell from the look on his face he’s telling me get it together. I can’t get anything from this man if he’s dead. But I could get it from her. I bet a lie has never crossed those sweet lips of hers. She’s too innocent and sweet. I could smell it on her.

I toss the man a good eight feet. He lands with a scream—I’m guessing he broke a rib or two—and guards come pouring into the room. “Take him back to a cell,” I command. He’s pulled from the room. Maybe a few hours in a dark cell will make him a little more talkative. I don’t have time for his stupid riddles.