Page 25 of Kingdom of Lies

I flush, both embarrassed and indignant. How dare he manhandle me so! Yet I bite my tongue, not wishing to provoke his temper.

"There, much better," Draknir declares, satisfied. He offers his arm to resume our tour.

As we walk, I seethe quietly. Just when I thought him capable of tenderness, his arrogant ways resurface. I must learn to abide by his moods if we are to maintain our façade.

For now, I keep my chin aloft and back straight, playing the poised lady despite the vexation simmering within. Draknir is not the only one who can mask true feelings beneath a façade.

Just then, his butler Elfred hurries over, face grim. "Pardon the intrusion, sir, but Captain Hayes urgently needs to speak with you. He says it is a serious matter."

Draknir's expression becomes sober. "Very well. Convey my apologies for cutting our time short, dear lady. We shall continue soon."

Before leaving, Draknir leans in and presses a soft kiss to my cheek.

"We must be ready to perform if the captain demands proof," he whispers close to my ear. His warm breath sends tingles through me.

Up this close, I smell Draknir's rich, masculine scent and feel the brush of his beard stubble against my skin. The unexpected kiss makes my heart flutter wildly.

I give a dazed nod, still flustered when he pulls away. "Of course, my lord."

What should I do if called upon to act the smitten mate? I have no experience with love's charades. As I watch Draknir's retreating figure, I frantically try to imagine how a woman hopelessly in love would behave.

But the lingering imprint of Draknir's lips on my cheek muddles any practice. Already he has a power over me beyond my control. I press a hand to my face, praying I can convincingly feign a passion not yet fully realized between us.

14

DRAKNIR

Ilead my mentor through the grand halls of my luxurious estate. The sound of our footsteps echo off the marbled floors and ornate walls, lined with portraits and tapestries. I beckon Captain Hayes to follow me into my private study, a quiet oasis amidst the bustling estate.

The intricately carved oak door swings open with a soft creak, revealing the warm glow of flickering candles and the scent of sandalwood lingering in the air. As we step inside, a servant appears, pouring two glasses of rich amber liquid from a crystal decanter.

The fire crackles and pops in the grand stone fireplace, sending comforting waves of warmth and the rich scent of burning wood throughout the room. I take a slow sip from my drink.

The room is filled with an air of old-world elegance, with intricate tapestries adorning the walls and towering bookshelves overflowing with leather-bound volumes. The sound of gentle piano music fills the air, adding to the cozy atmosphere as we settle in for a long-awaited reunion.

"I received a summons," Hayes responds dryly with a small sip of his liquor, his eyes glinting with curiosity as the amber liquid swishes around in his glass. I take a fortifying gulp from my own drink, savoring the rich aroma that fills my senses. “Rumors are running rampant that you’ve fallen for some human girl? Or perhaps her grandmother.” He laughs. “The things men talk about when there’s no fighting to occupy them. Anyhow, I assume you’ve decided to agree to your father’s request and become his legal heir?”

"No," I say, leaning in closer to Hayes. "I intend to marry the human girl, Kathleen, in just three days' time." The firelight dances across our faces, casting shadows on the walls of the grand hall where we sit.

Hayes nearly chokes on his drink, his eyes widening in shock. "Marry her? Have you lost your mind?" His voice is laced with disbelief and confusion.

I take a deep breath before answering, knowing my words will only add to his shock. "I may have, but not for the reason you would think. Please believe me, my friend, I would never deceive you. Our bond runs deeper than mere duty."

A flicker of understanding passes through Hayes' features, softening his expression. We have been through thick and thin together, our loyalty and friendship unbreakable.

“You have been my mentor and father figure since I was a young recruit,” I continue, my voice filled with heartfelt gratitude. “But this union with Kathleen is the surest way to secure my freedom. I implore you to have faith in me now.”

My superior's brows furrowed in concern as he leaned back in his ornate chair. His gaze bore into mine, searching for any signs of hesitation or wavering resolve.

“This marriage is a dangerous gamble, my boy. Are you absolutely certain you want to bind yourself to this girl forever?” he asks, his tone laced with worry and caution.

I meet his gaze steadily, resolute in my decision. The words spill from my lips, confident and unwavering.

“I have no desire to be a pawn for that wretched noble family claiming to be mine. I need no one's power or wealth.” The thought of being controlled and manipulated by those who seek only to exploit their ties to my supposed title fills me with disgust and determination. "This marriage may come with risks, but it is worth it if it means true freedom from the clutches of those who would use me for their own gain."

He leans closer, talking in a lower conspiratorial tone. "If this ruse is discovered, the punishment could be execution! Mating vows cannot be undone or transferred easily."

"I am prepared to take that risk. Once Kathleen and I are bonded, none can force their will upon me again. I will not be a substitute groom for someone’s political schemes."

---