Page 120 of Kiss of Light

His father didn’t say anything else. Lemar wondered where Tala was. He’d asked the kitchen to source a bottle of whisky for her, a good one. And he wanted her to meet his father properly. Give them a chance to get to know each other.

“The captain spoke to me earlier,” he said. “He received a reply from Salaq. The Marid denies any responsibility for the bounty on my head. However, he’s pleased to report that he was able to bring his considerable influence to bear and the contract has now been cancelled.”

“I see.” Vassago smiled thinly. “Lord Salaq is trying to demonstrate how helpful and important he is. No doubt in return for getting the contract ‘cancelled’ he will now ask for our political backing in his own domestic affairs.”

“Which you won’t give him.”

“No? Why do you say that? Lord Salaq would be a powerful ally.”

Lemar stared at his father.

“After what he did? You can’t be serious!”

“I have to make the best decisions for Palissandra. And those have to be based on practicalities. Not personal feelings. As you will discover.”

“What are you talking about? Salaq’s a dick. I insist we throw our weight behind Shadeed. The man is honourable and decent, and he went out of his way to help me.”

“You insist?” Vassago’s gaze was unblinking. “You wish to start making decisions for the future of this kingdom?”

“I can offer an opinion, can’t I? I’ve met Shadeed. You can trust him.”

Vassago studied him.

“You have matured since I last saw you.”

“Being chased by a pack of bounty hunters will do that to you.”

“Very well. Let us make a deal. If you stay here in Palissandra, I will support Lord Shadeed for the throne of Nush’aldaam.”

Lemar laughed.

“I can’t make that deal, dad. I’d have to ask Tala. Where she goes, I go.”

Vassago sighed.

“She is not the right one for you. I know you like her but…”

“It’s more than liking her. I told you. She’s my fated one. My true mate. I have to be with her.”

“Are you sure? Are youreallysure? If you don’t know how it feels, you may have been mistaken. Lust and love are often interchangeable.”

“Father. Listen to me.” Lemar spoke slowly and clearly. “The first time I saw her, every cell in my body lit up like a beacon. Every muscle, every sinew, screamed that she was mine. It was as if I’d been waiting for her my whole life. The thought of being without her, of losing her, makes me physically sick. So you tell me. Is she my fated one?”

Vassago listened to the passion in his son’s voice and his heart sank. He had no doubt that he was telling the truth.

“That is exactly how I felt about your mother,” he said heavily. “It’s quite an experience, isn’t it? Especially when your heart beats unexpectedly.”

“Like a wrecking ball inside your chest.”

“Yet you seem unsure as to whether she feels the same way?”

“Shaitun aren’t made to fall in love. The fact that she has any feelings for me at all is a miracle.”

“Feelings?” Vassago arched a brow. “And this is enough for you?”

“If that’s all she can give me, I’ll take it. Maybe I’m being selfish. But I can’t let her go.”

“I see.” Vassago shifted uncomfortably. “Son, I need to tell you something. Firstly, if I am any judge, the shaitun is in love with you.”

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