Page 280 of Master of My Life

An icy chill ran through Chase’s body. He’d seen that expression before. In Aiden Lang’s face

after confronting him about hurting Sabrina. Was it possible that someone had used Nigel to get to

him?

Everyone was talking at once. Questions were asked and accusations were made. Chase rubbed

his face, not knowing what to do.

Nigel looked up at him, his eyes wide, his face still red. “I’m sorry. I never would have . . . I had

to . . .” He swallowed hard. “I don’t know why . . .” He hung his head and shook.

Anger filled the room as accusations were flung back and forth. Someone lunged at Nigel and

Chase stepped in front of the Elder and put his hand on the other man’s broad chest. “This isn’t his

fault.”

“He tried to kill you,” the man said in a heavy African accent. “And you stand before him to

protect him? He should be disciplined, not protected.”

“Chase is right,” Richard said in a loud voice. “We saw something similar at home a few months

ago. This is far deeper and darker than this single occurrence.” He stood tall and glanced at Tom, who

nodded. “I suggest we cool down and have a meeting of Elders in the morning before everyone leaves

to discuss what we’re dealing with.”

Quiet murmurs filled the room and most everyone nodded in agreement.

“As it is my heir that was threatened, it is my place to discipline Nigel. As of this moment, he is

under my protection and anyone who attempts to step into my rightful place will deal with my wrath.”

Richard gave a curt nod to Nigel and Shaw, who were both still on the floor, and then turned and

strode away, head held high.

Chase hurried after him. Once they reached the US Elders’ changing room, Richard stopped and

ran his hands through his hair. “Are you all right?” he asked, turning to Chase. The concern in his eyes

made Chase swallow.

Chase nodded. “Yeah, I’m fine. Sabrina’s a good healer,” he added with a chuckle.

Richard put his hands on Chase’s shoulders. “I don’t know what I would have done—” He

swallowed and pressed his lips together, his eyes watering. He pressed his hand against Chase’s

cheek. “I love you,” he whispered, shaking his head. “I can’t imagine . . .” The depth of sadness and

fatherly love in the older man’s eyes took Chase’s breath away. Richard pulled him into a tight

embrace.

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