Page 67 of Between Realms

“I…” His blue-gray eyes lock onto me, imploring me to understand. “I don’t think I’ll ever forget her.”

“She is special. That is plain to see. But that’s exactly the problem. Everyone can see that there is something different about her. They can see it reflected inyoureyes.”

“So I’m not the only one?” he asks, sounding more forlorn than I’ve ever heard him.

I’m curious why this would be the issue that rattles him. Does he truly believe he was the only one to see the gem in the rough? That he had discovered a disguised treasure? Does he believeIdidn’t recognize her beauty and worth the first moment I laid eyes on her?

I’d kick myself again for not running away with her before we ever reached the castle if I thought it would do any good. But it’s too late. Wyn has caught the attention of the elves. Royal elves, who would do anything to eliminate someone who shines brighter than they do.

“No, Eldrin, you are not the only one who has eyes.” Sadness fills my entire being, knowing Wyn needs to leave us behind and find a life far from here.

And I fear I will never be happy again. Perhaps none of us will.

27

DRESS

WYNSTELLE

Jaden silently escorts me through the maze-like corridors to the other side of the castle. He seems exceptionally quiet this morning. Perhaps he’s still frustrated at me about putting an end to my defense training. If he only knew my forbidden desires grow with every touch and word we share.

His playfulness only draws me in more. His easy smile, paired with his caring attitude, makes it hard for me to breathe around him—not to mention his gorgeous violet eyes, roguish black hair, and stunning physique.

A prince could possibly get away with disregarding a sexual taboo, but my interest in Jaden would never be allowed. Not that I think he wants a sexual experience with me, so why do I pine for someone I can’t have? My feelings need to be shut away. Perhaps it’s better that he is being distant with me now before I get attached. Though, I fear it’s too late.

Or maybe his reserved attitude is because Oakes told him about the mark on my back, and now he wants nothing to do with a potentially cursed human.

I worry maybe he regrets covering up the dagger I brought into the castle. Perhaps he now sees me as a threat.

Or maybe he’s simply rescinding his offer to be my friend since he’s grown bored with me. Likely, he’s realized how foolish it is to befriend a mortal servant when he’s a royal advisor.

I squeeze my eyes shut and take quick, angry steps, reprimanding myself for being so self-absorbed. These males seem to bring that negative trait out within me. They bring out a lot of new emotions and sensations.

Jaden’s quietness could have nothing to do with my existence. After all, they chose him for the prince because of his passion. A certain amount of moodiness must come with that package, and his mood has definitely shifted. There are so many other things he must deal with in a day. Perhaps he’s irritated that he has to escort me to a silly dress fitting instead of doing his job, working out security for the arriving delegation.

“Who will attend the party?” I ask, trying to engage him to see if it’s really me he’s upset with.

Without breaking his long, determined strides, Jaden observes me from the corner of his eye before answering, his tone even. “All the nobles. Fromallthe fae kingdoms.”

“Oh.” I bite my lip. “Goddess, I will be extremely out of place amongst the elite elves from the entire realm. If Eldrin grants me any special attention in front of the most influential people in the kingdoms, he will cause a stir and create a lot of problems for himself. This is a terrible idea.” I spin on my heel mid-stride and hurry back toward my room.

Jaden grabs me by my waist and turns me to him. He presses my body against his, my toes barely touching the ground.

Thank goodness we are alone in the hallway, so no one can see us or guess why he’s holding me like this. Although, I also wonder what he’s doing.

Lifting me slightly, he carries me a short distance to a darkened alcove. I suppose he wants to keep whatever he’s confronting me about private.

His hand catches the back of my head by the nape of my hair. His strong fingers fist my long, wild hair. He tilts my head to the side to expose my neck. His nose grazes up the column of my throat, inhaling and scenting me.

I shiver with need, secretly wishing for him to trail his fingers over the same place, then to dip lower. I want him to tug my dress down and kiss my breasts.

My core pulses from his intense attention and the heat of his body seeping into mine. I want to match his assertive behavior, gripping his silky locks and bringing his luscious mouth to mine. I want to know what Jaden’s kiss might be like. Would he excite me just as the prince does? Or would he ignite my passions even more?

After checking my scent, Jaden releases some of whatever strange tension has built up in him, and his hold on me softens. With his gentling grip on my hair, he turns my head to look up at him properly. There’s a flicker of relief in his eyes. But why?

I feel no such relief. Quite the opposite, actually.

His dominant touch makes my body blaze with fire. Low in my belly, I instantly feel like the molten metal from a foundry. He smells faintly of smoke, like the coals heating my fire. His touch makes me believe he could melt my flesh and bones.

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