Page 39 of Kiss of Magic

Blake’s face was bleak.

“It’s a tragedy but there’s nothing we can do. And being caught by the police won’t help them.”

“But what’s everyone going to think? How will they explain all this?”

He shrugged.

“The authorities will come up with something. A sinkhole, maybe. Or a gas explosion. Maybe a mass drug overdose. There’s always an explanation, however unlikely. It’s how the world works. Now come on. We need to go.”

Eighteen

Arjhan

Nat paced around the throne room, refusing to admit to herself that she was nervous. There was no reason for it. She and Kam had parted on… well, notgreatterms but not bad ones either.

And he’d given her the Forbidden Zone. He’d understood it was her home. That had to mean something, didn’t it?

She turned as the door opened. A phalanx of guards came in, followed by a woman with long silver-grey hair. Nat stiffened.

She knew who it was instantly. Even in the Forbidden Zone, everyone was familiar with the Empress of Nush’aldaam. For a moment, the two women regarded each other.

Nat was beautiful, thought Ren. Her lithe body held a coiled grace which spoke of her combat skills and abilities as a slayer. Her cerise hair framed a delicately boned face with large indigo eyes. She carried herself with poise and confidence.

No wonder Kam had fallen for her.

Nat’s examination was just as frank. The Empress was tall and curvaceous, her ice-grey eyes cool and unflinching. Many people might see her as soft and pliant. But those people would be mistaken.

Nat saw things clearer than most, and what she saw was a core of steel. This woman was much more than just a dutiful wife. She was equal in every way to the man she’d married.

Well, this was awkward. Did the Empress know Kam had begged her to stay with him? That he’d professed his love for her?

The moment stretched. Suddenly remembering where she was and what was expected of her, Nat bowed stiffly.

“Your Majesty,” she said. “I am Lady Natalia Le…”

“I know exactly who you are,” Ren interrupted.

Without another word she walked purposefully towards Nat. The slayer tensed, expecting an angry tirade or a bitter confrontation, and was startled to find herself enveloped in a fierce hug.

“Thank you,” said Ren. “You saved him. You saved him from the curse.”

She released the slayer and Nat nodded slowly.

“I did, your Majesty. But you’re the one who brought him back to life.”

They looked at each other and no more words were needed.

There was a sudden commotion as the doors were thrown open and Kam strode in. He pulled up short when he saw the two women.

“Oh, ah, you’re here. You’re both here.”

Ren rolled her eyes.

“Don’t panic darling. I just wanted to meet the slayer, to thank her for her service to the Crown.” Ren turned a warm smile on Nat. “You are welcome here at any time, Natalia. In fact, I’d be honoured if you’d consider me as a friend.”

“In that case, call me Nat, your Majesty.”

“And you must call me Ren.” She glanced at Kam. “I know you must have a lot to catch up on. I won’t intrude. It was a pleasure meeting you, Nat.”

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