Page 59 of Triumphant Kings

“Nope.” I grin. “She doesn’t get a choice.”

“Collin.” Mom sighs, annoyed with me already.

“Gotta go to work. Love you.” I kiss her on the cheek in passing.

“See you soon,” she calls after me.

I’m on cloud nine all day, eager and excited to get my wife all to myself. It can be like the honeymoon we’ve never gotten the chance to take.

I’ve asked her about that. She said it’s because it wasn’t a real wedding. Not going to lie, that kind of hurt. But I get where she’s coming from.

But to me, this marriage means a lot. I see her as my wife, my best friend, someone I refuse to live my life and grow old without.

For the rest of the day, every class and counselling session, I’m distracted. All I can think about is for school to let out for the weekend and whisking my girl away to the mountains.

At lunch, I skipped going to the Host Club room. I knew if she were there, I wouldn’t have been able to keep this to myself. When it comes to her, I have a horrible poker face.

So, instead, I stayed in my office and made sure the cabin was set up and ready to go by the time we’d get there. I also asked Erin to pack Sadie a bag for the weekend.

When she asked me why, I had to tell her. Thankfully, she thinks it’s a great idea because, in her words, she looks so stressed and tired lately. I think some time away will help. That worried me a bit. Why haven’t I noticed that?

Have I been too stuck in my own head, dwelling on not getting to spend time with her?

There are things she’s not talking about. Like the fact that people are still talking about her being with multiple men.

It’s not as bad as it was when everyone first found out she’s not only with me, but still with Declan and her step-brother, on top of that.

After hearing a few nasty words with my own ears, I made sure to put a stop to that.

Did I threaten to fail them or get them kicked out of school if they didn’t fuck off?

Yes. Yes, I did.

Their parents aren't going to come after me, and they know it.

However, there’s one person who still doesn’t give a shit about my threats, and if she doesn’t back the fuck off, I’ll take things into my own hands. Even if I have to kill her myself.

I’m at the point where I’ll kill anyone who poses a threat to her. Even my father. Fuck, I’d gladly kill him if I knew I’d be able to get away with it.

When I know it won’t draw attention, I might take Rosie up on her offer to take care of him herself.

He’s been quiet. Too quiet. I don’t trust it, but I’m also not going to let him have that control over me and take away the bit of peace we've found.

I’m still paranoid. With the help of the guys, someone is always with Sadie, whether she knows it or not.

Declan and Preston might have judged me and Grayson for how we’ve been with Sadie, but they’ve turned into quite the little stalkers themselves.

Guess when your girl's safety is at risk, you're willing to do anything.

I know I am.

“Fucking finally,” I growl in annoyance as soon as the clock says three thirty, slamming my laptop closed and putting it in my bag before heading out of my office.

Slinging the strap of the messenger bag over my shoulder, I stride down the hallway, avoiding the students spilling out.

I’m a man on a mission, and nothing or no one is getting in my way.

“Mr. Killian,” Mr. Richman, philosophy professor, steps into the hallway just outside his classroom. “Can I talk to you for a moment?”

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