Page 91 of Wings of Betrayal

“Zarla!” Finlay rushes over to me and pulls me in for a hug. “Thank the gods you’re okay. I’m not happy with you right now, but we can talk about that later.”

I scratch my head. “I’m too late.”

He snorts. “No shit. But in all honesty, they wouldn’t have listened to you anyway. Amaros told them Harlum wasn’t your father. Not to mention throwing you under the bus as a murder suspect. It’s bullshit.”

“Leave.”

My entire body tenses at his menacing voice behind me.

Amaros.

Finlay darts his focus between Amaros and me. He knows Amaros is King, though, and he has to obey. He gives me an apologetic look and then walks away.

Amaros grabs my arm and turns me to face him. His nostrils flare as he takes in a deep breath. “You will never learn, will you?”

Frowning, I try to yank my arm free, but it’s no use. He hauls me through the crowds until we’re outside.

“Back to the castle. Now,” he demands.

He releases his wings and then waits while I do the same. He then gestures for me to go, and I know he is going to escort me.

“You can’t control me.”

He laughs. “Actually, I can. I am King now, and you must obey. Finally. Now go.”

I glare at him, considering my options. Can I outfly him back to the Dark Forest and through the gateway into Zarquon? It’s possible but unlikely. Sure, I am a powerful goddess, but he is a powerful god. One I may have underestimated. My chances of escape are slim.

I roll my eyes and take off toward the castle. It’s probably best to listen to him right now, especially after everything. He clearly knows I left the Kingdom. I can feel his anger, the anger he is trying to contain. His wings swoop, and I glance back to find him following me.

He flies up alongside me. “My balcony.”

I frown at him and shake my head. “No.”

He blasts me with his power, and I scream, cradling my shoulder as I fall. He glides down and catches me. Tears sting my eyes, but I refuse to look at him.

Zarla, what’s going on?Finlay’s concerned voice fills my mind.

“Disobedience will have consequences from now on. I am your King, and you will obey my command.”

I don’t bother responding. I know it won’t get me anywhere.

Thunder booms overhead, and a raindrop lands on my cheek before it turns into a complete downpour. By the time we land on his balcony, we’re both soaked, but my shoulder has healed thankfully.

Zarla? What’s going on? Are you with Amaros?

I’m okay. I’ll contact you soon,I tell him.

“You bastard!” I shout, shoving Amaros’s chest once he sets me down.

He doesn’t budge and simply smirks. “You’ve already healed, so stop complaining.”

I glare at him and take several steps back. “Why am I here?”

He moves forward and takes hold of my arm.

“Let go of me!”

“No,” he growls. “You are here because I can better keep an eye on you in my own quarters. Now get inside.”

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