Page 31 of The King has Fallen

There was only one man in this camp—probably in the entire Nephilim Kingdom—who had the power to remove that boy from Melek. And that was the King Himself.

I blew out a breath, genuinely stunned.

Gall was the King’s bastard? How had they keptthatsilent all these years—even fromus?

11. Hungry?

SOUNDTRACK:Devil Knowsby Armen Paul

~ YILAN ~

Two days later I was slumped against the back of the cage, swallowing the nausea that twisted my guts every time I smelled food.

It had been three days since I’d eaten, and now Melek was about to bring another hot and juicy meal to the tent. I honestly thought I might weep. My stomach felt hollow. My heart beat too quickly. My limbs were heavy.

When Melek returned, it would be to savor yet another meal in my presence, smiling smugly all the while.

God, help me.

I couldn’t let him win.

I tipped my head back against the bars and took advantage of the empty tent to lift my voice in song, in tongues, in prayer.

Care not for my tears,

I shed them for thee.

Care not for my wounds,

I would die in peace.

Your heart carries me.

Your breath lifts my wings.

Do not take me,

Do not take me.

I lay down my weapons

Hands open to peace.

Do not take me,

Do not take me.

Though I lay in the shadows—

The tent flap twitching aside was the only warning before the night air rushed in, carrying with it the scents of fresh, flaky fish, creamed potatoes, and something I couldn’t identify but it smelled delicious.

I think I actually groaned.

Melek ignored me completely.

This ritual with the food hadn’t changed, but his demeanor since I’d called Gall soulless had been gruff and distant. Even colder than before.

Instinctively, as he stalked into the tent, I tightened my grip on the spear. But he ignored me completely, sliding the large platter onto the table and settling himself in the chair.

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