Page 73 of My Haven
Chapter Ten
Caiden filed in behind his mate, keeping an eye on Meryn. The second she looked like she was even the slightest bit upset, he was taking them home. Genevieve’s hand in his gave a small squeeze. He gave a squeeze back and they sat down.
The parlor they were led to was one he had seen a few times before. He could tell immediately that the furniture and decor was mostly left over from their king and queen.
The timeless pieces that surrounded them, screamed of craftsmanship, and displayed wealth and class more than any gold or silver piece. Finely carved bookcases and inlaid flooring gave the entire room a very warm feel.
When the two squires entered, Caiden turned away to look out the window. Had things been different, he would have been raised by one of them.
“Lady Meryn, Lord Caiden, Lady Genevieve, welcome,” a light baritone voice said, walking in with a serving cart.
Caiden turned and watched the man that used to serve the Ironwoods. “Miles Spencer how is the Witches’ Council treating you?” he asked, trying to keep the bitterness from his voice.
Miles, smiled softly, then picked up the teapot. “I am well.” He turned to Ryuu. “Does your charge have a particular tea she prefers?”
Ryuu pulled a sachet from his vest pocket. “She is on a custom blend of Blessed Chamomile.”
Miles took the sachet and brought it to his nose. “Kendrick Ashwood’s work, if I am not mistaken.”
Ryuu nodded.
Miles measured out the tea and started a small teapot for Meryn.
“Lord Caiden, do you still prefer double strong black?” he asked.
“I do.”
The second squire stepped forward. “I will serve Lady Meryn, if permitted. I hear she is Lord Thane’s godsdaughter.”
Caiden looked out the window. “As if that means anything to either of you,” he murmured. Atticus Maison, used to be the Ashleigh squire, before the fall of the court.
“That’s cool. Ryuu, you can chill,” Meryn said.
“Yes,denka,” Ryuu replied.
Caiden turned and watched Meryn. She was relaxed and smiling at the two squires.
Atticus looked relieved and smiled at Meryn. “We don’t see many pregnant witches at the castle.”
“Oh, I’m not a witch, not really. I am half fae though,” she said.
The squire looked like he was about to speak when Thad joined them, with five others.
Caiden exhaled slowly in relief. Karl wasn’t among the visiting council members.
Caiden stood, as did Nigel, Neil, and Pip. Once the council members sat, they too sat back down.
Thad pointed to the cart and Miles began pouring from the larger teapot.
“Now, Meryn, I’d like to introduce you to my fellow council members.” Thad began.
Ryuu moved slightly forward, simply placing a hand on Meryn’s shoulder. Caiden was watching that man closely. If Ryuu had to act, Caiden wanted to be a half step behind him.
“To my immediate right we have Jayne Wintercress and Daia Rosewyn. Across the table is Ruadh Datura and Nia Aconite, and to my left is Varan Hellebore. Esteemed council members, our visitors today are Lady Meryn McKenzie, Lord Caiden Ironwood, Lady Genevieve, his mate, and Meryn’s attendants,” Thad said, wrapping up the introductions.
Jayne eyed Nigel and Neil. “I was told that Nigel and Neil Morninglory were Meryn’s brothers, are they attendants now?”
Thad placed a hand on his chest. “I misspoke, Nigel and Neil Morninglory along with Pip Maverick are Meryn’s adopted brothers. Behind her are Ryuu Sei, her squire and Pierce Alamarez, her guard,” he corrected.
