Page 47 of The Omega's Unexpected Bounty
Balo’s smile was wide before it disappeared. “May I assist you brother? You seem–”
Instead of finishing his sentence, he got Graden’s sandaled foot to the face and sprayed blood and saliva into the air. The tall Soturi who held me still and slapped me around now knew what it felt like. He didn’t kick me, but after what happened, I wouldn’t complain if there was something stronger than mere slaps.
“Up brother,” screamed Graden. His back was to me, but I saw shifting muscles flex and redden. The head security officer ran into the room while his bushy red hair swayed with every long stride. Rodion’s deep voice bellowed out. “Graden?”
“Youattackedmy Omega!”
Balo licked his bloodied lips slowly and his nose flared out as he glared at me. “The criminal lies.”
“Bullshit,” I yelled and then frowned as my New Texas upbringing returned. In my peripheral vision, I saw Rodion step to the side and stroll over to both brothers. Most people wouldn’t have noticed it, but he was in a perfect position to attack either without being too overt. I understood his profession, but I think he had it harder than me. In New Texas, I didn’t really have to worry about politics. If he attacked either it couldn’t be good for him. Balo would do everything to turn his life into a living hell while his and Graden’s friendship would suffer.
I willed the chair closer in hopes Volardi ethics would make sure they wouldn’t fight near a pregnant Omega. If Taleen had the same idea, we could have surrounded them somewhat. Instead, his upbringing reduced him to background silence.
Saying ‘your Majesty’ still felt weird, but I did it. I explained what Balo did while he looked at me with a thinned expression. “When did this occur?” he asked calmly.
I gave him the time to make sure he knew it was a short period ago. King Delius let out a wondering although almost dismissive murmur. “Balo recently entered this chamber with Taleen.”
“So he entered it right after he attacked me.”
King Delius’ purple eyes studied on me. “Balo. Did you attack him as he claims?”
“I’ve given my answer father, but I’ll repeat it again. The criminal lies. I’ve been with Taleen. Tell him as much.”
Taleen’s thin face looked down and then back up to the king. “He’s been with me.”
“He’s doing what Balo ordered him to say,” I screamed.
“There are different ways to interpret what Balo said,” whispered Delius. “For the good of our kingdom, I’ll rephrase. Taleen, during the time Caan mentions the attack took place, where was Balo?”
“In our chambers. Rubbing lotion on my belly.”
“Oh, for fuck’s sake,” I said.
Either he knew the idiom, or the implant translated it for him. No matter the reason, his face reddened as he rubbed his head. “It’s highly unlikely Balo could sprint from the Medical Chamber, retrieve his mate, and then walk effortlessly without panting. They are similar distances apart. Graden ran, and he is fatigued.”
There were arguments I could make, but something told me that interrupting the king would not be wise.
“Come closer, Caan.”
Three simple words but they made my heart pound. The ambient noise from heavy breathing, the Ryba male’s semi-constant slurps, to even the ocean breeze outside seemed to quiet as I approached. “Remind me where he grabbed you.”
“My wrists.”
“Rodion. Come here and inspect his wrists.”
He paused for the barest of instants and came to me. I had nothing against the guy or a need to fight, so I held out my wrist.
“Are there markings or bruises?”
His voice was slow. “No, your Majesty.”
The king’s voice shook, but it wasn’t with fear. “You interrupt my proceedings with lies and accuse my son of the most serious crimes; harming an unborn Volardi child.”
My eyes widened. “The nanites. They healed the bruises.”
“How convenient,” said Delius.
“It’s not for me since I’m trying to convince you of what happened.
