Page 113 of The Vampire's Bride

“Lord Jonathan Harker of Aralon came to my father’s court a few days ago.” My heart slams in my throat at the mention of my former fiancé. “He is nephew to your human king and claims the two of you were engaged. He said Lord Greyvale stole you away with a blood bargain, and now he and his king are demanding your return.”

Panic snakes down my spine. “Your Highness, I can explain. I—”

“Iaskedyou for an explanation earlier.” His eyes narrow. “Instead, you chose to withhold—”

The tempo changes, and he spins back to his partner while I return to Valaric.

“You’re pale.” His eyes flash with concern. “What’s wrong?”

“The prince knows.” I draw in a shaking breath. “Jonathan went before the Vampire king. He and his uncle—the King of Aralon—claim I was stolen. He’s demanding my return.”

Valaric glances at the shadows in the corner, no doubt searching for Aerlyx. “When I tell you to run, you must go,” he says in a voice so low I almost miss it. “Do you understand?”

My heart hammers. “What about you?”

“Do not worry for me. Just—”

The music changes, and before I even realize what’s happening, a strong hand wraps around my middle and I’m pulled into the arms of Prince Raine. He grasps my waist and lifts me off the ground in a half spin before setting me back on my feet.

“Not thinking of running away, are you?” His voice is smooth as silk. “If you do, I will only be forced to hunt you, you know.” The tips of his fangs peek out from his lips in a terrifying half-grin. “But if you must know the truth, I do enjoy a good hunt.”

“I was not abducted. I left of my own accord.”

“Are you saying I’ve been misinformed?” He arches a condescending brow. “That you did not make a blood bargain with Lord Greyvale to save your life, taking you away from your betrothed?”

Worry settles in my chest like a heavy stone. There’s too much to explain and the music is about to change again, so I speak quickly. “A bargain was made, but I chose Valaric nonetheless.” The words spill from my mouth in a panicked rush. “I can assure you, our marriage is true.”

“Well, this changes things,” he replies cryptically. He glances at Valaric and his blood wife dancing nearby. “Be a dear and keep Alayna entertained while I sort some things out, will you?”

Before I can answer, the tempo changes. In a blur of movement, Raine spins me to Alayna, and my heart slams in my throat as he rushes toward Valaric.

CHAPTER 48

VALARIC

Lightning fast, my claws lengthen and my fangs extend as I turn toward Raine, bracing myself for his attack. At the last moment, he twists to one side, catching me by the arm.

“I’m not fighting you,” he hisses under his breath as he spins us, taking my hand in his and looping his other arm around my waist. “I am dancing with you, you idiot.”

A low growl rises in my throat as he takes my other hand, placing it just above his hip as we dance. I sweep my gaze to Juliet, checking to make sure she is all right.

On the other side of her, Damar gives me a slight nod, letting me know he is watching over my wife.

Raine tries to lead, but I push back.

“Where are your manners?” He frowns. “I am your prince.Youare supposed to letmelead. Not the other way around.”

“What do you want?” I grit through my fangs.

“Ah.” He chuckles darkly. “Straight to the heart of it. That’s what I’ve always liked about you, Valaric.”

“And I have always disliked your games, Prince Raine.”

A sly grin curls his lips. “How do you know if you’ve never played?”

I narrow my eyes. “I’m not interested.”

“Do not flatter yourself,” he scoffs. “You’re not my type either.”

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