Page 39 of Emerald Queen
“Yes. We will have to tell them eventually about Sarifena and I, but for now that’s enough.”
“Any word on the Diamond Queen?” Sarifena asked.
“None. It’s like who ever took her just vanished.”
“Fuck.” Sarifena screamed into the room, “What if they killed her already?”
“We can’t think like that.” Emersyn huffed.
“Fine. Let’s go call the other queens. Maybe they have information we don’t. Captain,” Sarifena smiled at Alex, “Please let us know once you’ve found out who was in the castle. We need that journal back.”
Chapter 23
Sarifena stayed for two weeks, helping Emersyn with her magic, while getting to know her. They’d shared stories of growing up, what King Virid was like, and learned that they’d both been lonely. Sarifena finally left, saying she needed to stop avoiding her mother. It was time to hear her side of the story and maybe learn something that would help. The other queens were on high alert, knowing the journal was out there.
Emersyn sat with her legs tucked beneath her. She was in the garden, soaking up the sunlight, when Drake found her.
“Emersyn,” he sat down, tugging her body to his, “I’ve been looking for you.”
“I needed some space,” she leaned into him, “is everything ok?”
“Yes… and no.” He slid from the bench to his knees, “I love you, Emersyn. And I know everything is tense right now…” he cupped her hands in his, “But I needed to remind you that I am here, and I love you.”
“I love you too, Drake. I’m sorry I’ve been distant. All this mess with my dad’s journal has me on edge. Speaking of the journal, any luck finding it?”
“No. It’s as though whomever entered the Castle did so with out being seen. I’m sorry. I know you still have questions.”
Emersyn reached out and brushed her hand through his hair. Her palm slid down, cupping his cheek. “Yes, but with you, I will figure this out. Hell,” she smiled, “I have a sister now.”
“And you have me,” Drake shifted his weight, tugging something from his pocket, “I know it hasn’t been long – but I will love you for eternity, Emersyn. I can’t think of life without you. Please put me out of my misery and marry me. Say you’ll be mine forever.” He pulled a ring from the tiny box and held it up.
Emersyn’s breath caught. It was the most stunning ring she’d seen. It was a emerald cut diamond, surrounded by round emeralds. She reached out and fingered the tiny gems.
“Drake?” she looked into his eyes. Eyes that held promise of forever, “Yes… oh my God. YES!” she clasped the ring in her hand and leapt into his lap.
Drake wrapped his arms around her, pressing his hand into her hair. “Thank God. I thought you were going to say no with everything going on. But I couldn’t wait any longer. I had to ask.”
“Thank you for not waiting.”
Drake lifted her from the ground and settled them both on the bench. He took the ring from her grasp and slipped it onto her finger. He glanced around the garden, shaking his head, “You did it again.”
Emersyn looked around. Every flower had bloomed, leaving them surrounded by fragrant smells and sights.
“Oops…”
She leaned in, pressing her delicate mouth to his. Drake met her eager lips with his own, kissing her as though it was the first and last time.
When they broke apart, “I need to call Sarifena.”
“Absolutely,” Drake stood, holding his hand out, “Let’s go.”
Hand in hand they walked back to the castle. Emersyn couldn’t help but smile. Even in this horrific time, she felt happy. Captain Hill was waiting for them in the Library.
“I have some news.”
Emersyn glanced at Drake, “We do, too. You first.”
“The journal has turned up.”
