Page 2 of Diamond Queen
Tracing the ink, she trailed her finger down, and over the cotton band-aid she’d made, pausing at the elastic band of his boxers. Even unconscious, the evidence of his manhood made her bite her lip. His boxers were made from a smooth material that molded to his body. The outline of his shaft sent tingles straight between her legs. She ran her hand over his hip, staying clear of his privates, and down his legs. The muscles of his calves proved he was a man who took pride in his appearance.
Grabbing the blanket, she gave one last look and covered him again. Battling exhaustion herself, Dimitra decided she needed to sleep. Afraid to put too much distance between them, out of fear she wouldn’t hear him if something happened, she climbed into bed beside him.
Turning on her side, she watched his chest rise and fall, letting the sound of his breathing lull her to sleep.
Chapter 3
Jason felt like his insides were filled with hot embers trying to burn their way out. His body was sticky from the sweat clinging to his skin. Flickering his eyes open, he squinted against the overhead light. His head spun, nausea churning in his gut. Shifting slightly, he realized something was pressing against him.
Turning his head to the side, he blinked, clearing the fog from his vision. It wasn’t something, it was someone. Dimitra, to be exact. She was curled in a ball beside him, wearing only her bra and panties. Jason slowly pushed himself up, so he was resting against the metal frame of the rickety bed. He winced from the pain rippling through his body. Taking slow breaths, he eased the homemade bandage down. Leaning his head against the wall, flashes of being stabbed filtered across his eyes.
The wound was still oozing but had started to close. Looking back at Dimitra’s still form, Jason couldn’t help but feel guilty. He promised to keep her safe and failed by almost getting himself killed. Frankly, he wasn’t sure how he wasn’t dead. The knife entered just below his ribcage. His ability to breathe told him it missed anything vital.
Easing his feet to the floor, he sat on the edge of the bed. He had no idea how long he’d been in and out of consciousness, or how long Dimitra had been taking care of him. Using what little strength he had, he pushed to a standing position. His mouth felt as though it was filled with cotton, demanding to be saturated. He shuffled his feet across the concrete floor. His palm pressed into his side, keeping pressure against the damage Helix left behind.
Bracing himself with both hands against the sink, he closed his eyes to let the pain pass. It hurt to take a simple lung full of air, let alone walk – but he pushed through. Turning on the faucet, he scooped the cool liquid into his mouth. His need for water was colossal. Splashing the tepid drops against his face, he stood.
Jason made his way around the room, inspecting the prison he and Dimitra were locked inside. Glancing at the floor, he saw the remnants of something metal peeking out from behind his belt that was discarded at his feet. Nudging the leather with his toe, Jason squinted, trying to figure out what was hidden beneath. He was concerned about the blood droplets that were splattered all around the fragments, making him wonder if Dimitra had gotten herself hurt.
Moving back to the bed, Jason eased himself back onto the mattress, careful not to rouse Dimitra. He checked her over, ensuring she was breathing ok before he pulled the blanket back over their bodies. He leaned against the frame again, resting his head against the uneven wall, and closed his eyes.
Chapter 4
Amalee stared at Dante, “Please tell me you’ve found something?”
“We’ve narrowed it down to an abandoned gemstone mine on the opposite side of the water. It would make sense that he called it a rock garden. From what I’ve read, it used to hold gems of all types, making it a glittering spectacle. We are amassing a strike team comprised of all the kingdoms.”
“I want to be there.”
“Amalee,” Dante ran his hand across her cheek, “It will be too dangerous.”
“No… I’ve talked to the others, they agree. The five of us need to be there in the event our magic is needed.”
“And who will protect the children if you’re not here, my little gem?” He twined his fingers into her hair as he gazed into her eyes.
“You will make sure your best officers are left here to protect them.”
Pressing his forehead to hers, “Then we need to get planning. This could very well be what saves the six kingdoms.”
Amalee pressed her lips to his before tugging him toward the door. “I’m glad you agree. Everyone is waiting in the conference room to strategize.”
“You little minx,” Dante swatted her butt as he followed her from the room.
The conference room was swarming with people. Every kingdom’s Constable, Commander, and Captain stood behind the chairs surrounding the table. Emersyn, Onika, Sarifena, and Rory were seated, their raised voices filling the room.
“Amalee,” Emersyn smiled, “We’ve come up with a few ideas and need your input, as well as helping settle a disagreement.”
“Please tell Rory she isn’t going,” Onika grumbled, her eyes cutting to the very pregnant Ruby Queen sitting across from her.
“Shut up, Onika. I already told you that’s not up for debate. I will go, and no one will stop me.”
“Those babies may argue with your thinking.” Sarifena chuckled as she watched the two go at it again.
“Shut up, Sarifena. Whose side are you on anyway?” Rory folded her arms across the protruding baby bump.
“Amalee – what do you think? Should Rory stay here?”
“Why don’t we wait and see how she feels once we decided what we’re doing? I think Rory is smart enough to decide for herself. Besides,” Amalee placed her hand on Rory’s shoulder, “We may very well need her fire.”
