Page 4 of Dead

Adriel looked up at Eilam, his body throbbing with want.

Succumb and he’ll win. I am ruler of this world. I won’t be controlled.

“I still don’t understand your anger… I just gave you what you asked for, yet I get attitude in return. I am particular about my guards and have every right to be. My king’s guard is at my side, day and night.” Adriel rose to his feet as well, refusing to cower. “And I think you may forget yourself and to whom you speak.”

Eilam snarled for a moment before lifting his chin arrogantly. “I would never place someone on your personal guard I did not trust completely. My only desire is to protect you.”

Since you won’t let it be me who protects you…

Eilam hadn’t spoken the words, but they might as well have been. They hung heavily in the air between them. Adriel wanted to escape… to put distance between him and this man who thought Adriel was his mate.

I am.

I belong to him.

But to succumb would show weakness.

If the witch surrenders…

“I am aware how… dedicated you are to your job,” Adriel murmured lowly, trying to control his raging emotions. “But as I said… I have a right to choose my guardsmen.”

Eilam released a slow breath. He plastered on a smile that didn’t reach his beautiful eyes. “You do. You’re right. I apologize for my reaction, Your Majesty.” Adriel watched as the strong, powerful man bent at the waist. He lifted his stare as he rose, capturing Adriel’s.

“The police force and the terminal guards—they are yours to control as you see fit. Make your changes, if you must—” Adriel lifted a brow. “Happy?”

Eilam calmed some. He stood to his full height. “I am. Thank you.”

“Is there anything else?”

“There is,” Eilam said, holding Adriel’s gaze.

No man from their world would be so bold as to hold the king’s gaze so long. No man but Eilam. And Adriel found he couldn’t look away—and that fact bothered him greatly. “Must I drag it from you? I don’t have all day.”

“The dinner you plan to hold in Hart’s honor. I would like to bring my brother bear, Noah, along with me as my guest.”

The other one. Adriel had refused to meet Eilam’s better half for months now, knowing if he was in a room with both of them, he’d struggle even more to contain the need pulsing through him. Bear shifters mated in triads… two strong betas grow alongside one another as strong as brothers and one day they would come across their third.

Me.

“No. I’ve told you he is not welcome here.”

Eilam glared at him, his brows furrowing. He didn’t say a word, but the rage within Eilam was obvious. His eyes glowed brightly with the strong emotion. Finally he lifted his head some and stared down the bridge of his nose. “Others in your employ are allowed to bring their significant others. Why am I any different?”

“You know why!” Adriel spat.

“No. You’ve never given me a legitimate reason why my brother bear is banned from your presence.”

“Because I do not wish to meet him.”

“Because you know we are your mates! And you know you cannot handle being in the same room with both of us and continue this lie of yours.”

“No!” Adriel roared back. “I do not lie. I am not your mate.”

Eilam stiffened, almost looking as if he was in pain.

“I will not surrender to you,” Adriel seethed, quivering with his own rage.

Eilam stared, silent for a few moments before looking away. Adriel was finally able to breathe after the bear’s fierce regard turned from him.

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