Page 87 of Clash of Kingdoms

How could anything be more painful than that?

When I didn’t say anything, he spoke. “I need to leave.”

My heart gave a lurch, afraid this would be the last time I saw him. “Aurelias, I hate this.”

“Not more than I do.”

“What you did is unforgivable…but I want to forgive you.”

His eyes hardened on my face, growing intense like he might grab me and kiss me again.

“Give me a reason to forgive you.”

His eyes grew guarded.

“Give me a reason,” I whispered. “Please…”

His eyes dropped.

“Tell me why.”

His eyes never rose to meet mine again. He stepped around me and grabbed his sword where it leaned against the wall. He hooked it into the scabbard across his back then moved to the door.

I turned and watched him go, his back to me now.

Without looking at me, he spoke. “I’m sorry, baby.” Then he walked out and left the door wide open.

TWENTY

AURELIAS

I met my brothers in the clearing where the dragons waited for us. It was dark now, the torches our only source of light. Fifty vampires were there too, all Originals, all with the same ability I possessed.

And Huntley was there, ready to see us off. “My brother is going to accompany you so he can communicate with the dragons. With this many dragons leaving our kingdom, it’s imperative we keep them safe.”

“I understand.”

“Got the detonators?”

“Yes.” Kingsnake held up the sack over his shoulder.

Huntley looked at me again. “This is where I tell you how much I appreciate your sacrifice…but there are no words of gratitude I could ever express that would equal your actions.”

“I’m not doing it for gratitude, so you can save your breath.”

For the first time ever, Huntley cracked a smile like he might laugh. But then it disappeared as quickly as it arrived. “We were both down there. We both know what awaits you. You may be a vampire, but there are things out there we don’t understand. Be careful, not arrogant.”

I nodded in understanding.

“I wish I could fight by your side, but you’re right, my place is here with my people.”

I nodded in agreement.

“Please come back—all of you.” He looked at my brothers and grabbed each one by the shoulder before he walked off and joined his wife. Harlow didn’t come down to see me off. She’d remained in the cottage after I left, her mind burning in pain until we were so far apart I couldn’t feel it anymore.

“Let’s go.” I approached Storm and climbed up.

Cobra remained on the ground, looking up at me with his hands on his hips. “I’m just supposed to climb up?”

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