Page 3 of Foretold

“You’re safe here,” Zython promises me, scanning my eyes. “I was going to come speak with you soon anyway. I know that Axe and Bane came to see you.”

“You mean to scent me?” I reply, arching my brow. “Yes, they did. And they told me…” I trail off. “Do you think it’s true?”

He nods, then looks over at August as if just realizing he’s there.

“August’s mom raised me after mine died when I was eight years old,” I explain, wanting him to know I trust August with everything. “And then, when his mom passed away a few years back, he was the one making sure I was okay. I trust him with everything.”

He bows his head slightly to August, surprising me. “Then I owe you my gratitude.”

“You don’t owe me anything,” August replies, clearing his throat. “I would do everything for Star.”

“Star?” Zython asks, confusion sweeping his brow.

“He’s always called me that,” I say, smiling at August. “I think the king here might be my father.”

His eyes widen as he looks between Zython and me, his brow furrowing. “I thought incubi can’t have daughters?”

Zython nods, looking at me with awe. “We haven’t been able to in over a century until now. We have much to discuss, Princess, but let me get you settled in first.”

My mating bond bands burn a little, and I absently rub them, wondering if Rave has finally realized what happened.

I couldn’t save his son.

I’ve left him.

Maybe he won’t come after me since his focus will be on his child.

And I don’t even know how to feel about that.

CHAPTER TWO

Astrid

We are given rooms next to each other, and a fae named Bree brings me clothes and toiletries.

“This room is beautiful,” I say, touching the red velvet blanket on the four-poster bed. It’s extravagant, decorated in white and gold. A large balcony has views of the castle gardens, the city on the horizon, and a comfortable-looking daybed I can see myself lounging on. While Aravalle is full of trees, Chaos is surrounded by mountains, and the view is incredible.

“It is,” she agrees, opening my armoire and filling it with the items in her hands. “I hope you like it here. If there’s anything else you need, don’t be shy to ask. The king said we are all to give you anything you want.”

Having Zython as my father is sounding pretty good right now.

“Thank you,” I reply, my voice cracking a little.

She fills a bath, and I spend over an hour in there before I dress in a black tunic and trousers. I’m plaiting my still damp hair when there’s a knock on my door.

With quick steps, I open it and find Zython, looking a little unsure.

“Come in.”

He steps inside and shuts the door behind him. “I hope you’re settling in okay.”

“I am. Thank you… for everything,” I say, sitting on the bed and tapping the spot beside me.

He hesitates, then sits slowly. “I’m sure you have many questions.”

“I do,” I admit, my lip twitching. “Let’s start with how youdidn’t know I existed, or did you know and not care?”

He rubs the back of his neck, his crown tilting forward slightly. “I didn’t know you existed, and that is the truth. As you know, I have two sons… your brothers, Axe and Kai. I also have Bane, who was my best friend’s son. He died, so I took Bane in. Your mother, who was she?”

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