Page 78 of Blood and Ruin: The Complete Series

Her eyes turn sad at my admission. “But—”

“There’s no time.” I give her a little push.

“Go. Now. Please. Or this will have all been for nothing. The guys need you. Don’t let them down.”

Something flashes in her eyes before she reluctantly nods her head.

Moving out into the main area, I push her behind the nearest post and out of view, just as Kaladar walks in.

“You!”

I stand up taller, giving him a smug smirk. My faux confidence slips over me like an old friend.

“How did you get past my defences?” His eyes are wide with rage as they dart around the room looking for some clue as to how I got in here before narrowing on the open door.

Edging away from Luna and the only way out, I summon my blasé attitude, feigning a naivety I never truly possessed.

I shrug. “I was bored.”

His eyes narrow on me. “You little—”

“Did you know there’s plenty of places in this building that are easy to access, if you know where to look?” I give him a slow smirk.

“You think this is a game!” he grits out, his eyes bulging in rage.

“I’m King’s prisoner.” I shrug. “We both know it.

I give him a knowing look as he clenches his jaw. His nostrils flare as he releases a harsh breath, losing an edge to his ire and falling right for my act.

“There’s got to be some way I can entertain myself.”

“You broke intomysuite, twice? For fun?”

I give him a sassy smile. “I like the challenge.”

His smile turns cruel. “Well in that case, far be it for me, to ruin your fun.”

He moves closer. “In fact, how about I give you another little challenge? One I think you will find a lot more appealing than simply breaking and entering.”

A shiver crawls down my back at the cruel glint in his eyes and pure delight in his voice. But I can’t focus on that. I need to get Luna out of here.

Taking a step towards the lounge, I draw his attention to me and his back to Luna. Feigning to inspect the room, I watch Luna peak out from behind the post.

Needing him further away, I slip into the next room, hoping he follows.

“Where do you think you’re going?” he demands, but he’s already moving forward, pursuing me and playing right into my hands.

I turn around walking backwards to answer, catching a glimpse of Luna opening the door and quietly slipping out.

The tension leaves me, seeing her finally free, all unbeknown to Kaladar.

“I might as well have a look around. I didn’t get the chance last time.”

Turning around, I walk over to the large painting above his fireplace, feigning interest at the ugly piece as he comes up beside me.

“King will want to know about your disobedience.”

“I’m sure you’ll be the first one to tell him.” I dig my nails into my hands, the bite of pain keeping me here in this moment and not lost to panic as he moves closer.

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