Page 355 of Born of Blood and Ash

“Is to be anywhere near Kolis or any of his supporters.” Ashcontinued like I hadn’t spoken. “Nor should you even be thinking about leavingthe Shadowlands. Kolis will not step foot here, and you’re surrounded by guardsand an army.”

I drew in another breath, reminding myself that this wascoming from a good place. Ash was being protective. “I understand why you feelthis way—”

“Glad we’re on the same page.” A half-smile appeared.

“We are so not on the same page, Ash.”

Wisps of eather swirled in hiseyes. “You are carrying our children, Sera. You are in a vulnerable state, andI will not risk losing you or them.”

“You are not going to lose me or them. I’m pregnant, Ash.Not unable to defend myself or fight,” I argued.

“The Healer said you are in a weakened state and shouldavoid using the essence.”

“Perhaps if you had spent the time listening to Kye insteadof growling at him, you would’ve heard him say that was a concern for when Ienter the third trimester,” I pointed out. “And in case you’re havingdifficulty with basic math, that’s like many weeks from now.”

The eather moved more wildly inhis eyes. “I heard him perfectly clear. Things are more dangerous for you inthe third trimester. That does not mean things are safe for you now.” His headcut toward Nektas. “Where are you going?”

Nektas stopped with a hand on thedoorknob. “Anywhere but here.”

Ash’s expression turned bland. “Before you do that, it wouldbe great if you’d tell my lovely, far-too-brave wife that I’m right.”

The draken opened his mouth.

“He is not going to agree with you,” I insisted.

Ash arched a brow. “Considering that Nektasis intelligent, I am sure he will.”

“And I’m sure that since he’s so intelligent, he knowsexactly what must be done and that it involves my participation.”

“I think you’re going to be disappointed.”

I stepped toward the bed. “I think you’re about to be kickedoff that bed.”

His lips curved up, revealing the tip of a fang. “Soundslike a good time.”

“Oh, I can promise you it will not be a good timefor you.”

“If I may speak?” Nektas started.

“Yes,” Ash said.

“No,” I snapped.

Nektas sighed. “Ash, you’reright.”

Ash’s smile was smug when I muttered, “You were myfavorite draken.”

“I’m going to ignore that,” Nektascontinued. “Because you are also right.”

Ash’s lips compressed into a thin line.

“And you two need to figure out what that means.” Nektas opened the door. “I’ll be waiting downstairs.”

I watched the doors close, my foot tapping.

“Liessa.”

“Don’t call me that.”

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