Page 39 of Heir of the Beast

How could I forget that juicy little tidbit?

“Very clear,” I continue, “though I do at least want to conduct a DNA test, if I can get approval from the Garthorn Royal family, seeing how I answer to them, not you.

“And I know Prince Apollo is also curious about my origins, so I don’t think this will be a problem. There will be no deceit.” I smile.

“His Grace is now out with my daughter, Princess Laura of Galleon. I believe that she will soon become your queen, so I would watch your ignorant mouth, you slave!

“I will have a word with Apollo about your request and express my displeasure. He will not want to offend the King of Galleon and start a war with the House of Garthorn, after we have been allies for so long.”

I keep my mouth shut.

Hardball.

She stands, and before she leaves, she adds, “Apollo is falling in love with my daughter, and if I catch wind of your boldness again, I will not show you mercy.” ′

I take a large breath when I hear the heavy door shut.

Mort is now in human form. “Extortion. She is nervous. That’s obvious.”

I stand and glance at the seat Queen Irena just occupied. “If the King finds out about her infidelity, what happens?”

“She would be beheaded.”

***

I thought I would be able to see Apollo again, but I was wrong. Mort believes he is keeping his distance because of all the rumors.

Earlier, I was questioned by Apollo’s advisers, and I asked if I could get a DNA test. I never received a clear response, which was disheartening. But at least I am not placed back in the dungeon.

I am cleared for now to do my regular responsibilities—clean and clean some more. The headmaster gives me the worst jobs, I swear.

I really would like to fight her. Put on some boxing gloves and have at it.

I walk alone because the headmaster wanted to borrow Mort and another slave to clean the central chimney. She had no choice but to go, which makes me nervous.

I don’t like being by myself. I have my lifelines, which makes me feel a little better.

I keep walking down the long, busy hallway, keeping my head down. I barely glance up, and I nearly gasp.

Apollo is talking to what looks like high-ranking officials. He looks powerful like he just came from riding his mighty stallion.

His hair is wild and up in a man bun, but not in a metro-sexual way, like a ninja warrior way or a samurai master.

Apollo seems to be out of breath and is having a heated conversation. They must have just come in from outside. He shakes his head and puts his hands on his hips right as he glances at me.

I yank my head down and turn a corner as fast as I can. My heart is pounding. I am not sure if he saw me, but my heart beats anyway.

I’m also not sure why I don’t want to see him. Maybe deep down he intimidates me to crazy levels.

My whole body tenses when I hear footsteps behind me; they sound heavy and fast. I turn another corner, and thankfully it’s empty, without prying eyes seeing me almost run. That would look very suspicious.

As I walk at a reckless pace, I hear the footsteps still behind me. I take a deep breath.

It could be anyone.

The footfalls are closer, and I have no choice but to glance behind me. My eyes widen when I see Apollo with a grin on his face.

“Angel, there is no way you’re out-walking me,” he says, catching me by the shoulder and spinning me around.

---