Lycan's Prey by Jessica Hall

Chapter 109

“It’s why I take Max with me everywhere. It also put him in the limelight. But by doing so in a way that has protected him, my movements are too watched by the councils, so are his. He is also too youn

young right now to take over my place so not a threat

to them.”

“But how would your wife be a threat?”

“A queen can rule without a king, just as I can without a Queen. If I die that title remains especially when if you’re carrying my heir.”

“We can discuss it more later. For now just think about what I‘ ve said, I’ll speak with my mother about postponing the wedding.”

“Good thing she hasn’t sent invites out yet.” I tell him.

He nods, but I know she is meant to this week though I wonder how upset she’ll be once she learns we are pushing the wedding back.

*****

waiting, as I finish slipping

looms ahead, its stone walls towering

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storm last night. My heart pounds as we cross the threshold together, but the staff bustle around us, their eyes fixed on tasks rather than on us. No whispers, no raised eyebrows–just the soft rustle of feather dust brushes and the clink of metal as they go about

Soren’s voice breaks through

smile that doesn’t quite reach my eyes. Guilt tugs at my insides, heavy and suffocating. I think of my past–secrets lurking just beneath. the surface–and consider telling him about Rhett. But the moment slips away, tangled up in uncertainty

Soren’s arms, wrapping his small legs around his

and warm. “Maybe after we shower, buddy.” He glances over at me and I nod, my cheeks heating.

he feels for his father. My heart twists again, caught between the joy of this moment and the weight of my secret, knowing I could lose

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Chapter 109

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exasperation as he pries Max from his father kicking and squirming. Soren. laughs in amusement. “You have to finish your