Page 27 of Heart of the High King
I knew you were an extension of the royal court, but I didn’t know you guys were so close.
They spend at least one weekend a month here at D’Vaire with us. We love it when they visit.
Have you ever said no to them?
Yes. Every year I’m invited along with every other king to the annual dragon fair. I refuse to attend.
Why?
Running a hand through his hair in frustration, Aleksander reminded himself that honesty was the most important factor in his relationship with Rafferty.I hate to leave the house. I have panic attacks sometimes. I’m scared when I do leave that I’ll embarrass myself by having another one.
I’m sorry.
Don’t apologize for things that aren’t your fault, Rafe. I’m different and it makes people uncomfortable. I’ve learned through the incredible men and women in my house that I shouldn’t ask for forgiveness because Fate singled me out.
You have a great deal of courage.
Aleksander found the shocked emoji and sent it.Was that a compliment?
I might take it back.
No backsies. Plus, I have written proof.
I have to delete our messages. I don’t want Sullivan reading them. Aleksander’s eyes narrowed, but before he could respond another text came through.I shouldn’t have told you that. Shit, why do I always send you things without thinking?
Why would Sullivan want to read our texts?
Can we save that question for another day?
Although disappointment swept over Aleksander, he was willing to let Rafferty have his way.Sure. Your turn. Ask me something.
Did you ever consider staying at your ancestral grounds when the dragons joined the Council?
D’Vaire had no ancestral anything. We were moved frequently since my father told any and every one that I was cursed and evil. I wasn’t going to refuse Chrys though I didn’t know him then. I was going to honor Fate because that’s what I was taught to do.
Your father?
Yes. King Ethelin.
For the first time, it was Rafferty sending the shocked emoji.Your father is King Ethelin?
You lived in the Consilium. How did you not know that? Worth and I were accused of kidnapping Somerly some years ago.
I guess no one told me. Wow.
Ethelin is an intolerant asshat. I grew up thinking it was wrong that I was gay, so I never told anyone not even my best friend. He tore me from my cousins and tried to wreck my life. Thanks to my family, we persevered instead.
Someone should write your life story.
Who would read that?
Me.
Aleksander grinned like an idiot at his screen.I’m an open book for you. Come visit me again.
I’ll talk to Sullivan.
