Page 81 of Brighter Than Gold

Callan helped me mount, and then handed me the cloak. “Time to start the charade,” he said.

I laughed as I thought about it. We’d left the palace two weeks ago playing at a charade, and as we returned, we’d have to play a whole new one. I ached just to be myself.

* * *

Twenty minutes later Callan had flagged down a patrolling sentry. We were rushed into the palace, flanked by more and more military men as we got closer. Callan stayed near to me until we made it inside, and I darted nervous glances back at him as a flurry of people descended on us. He reassured me with gentle nods as lady’s maids and footmen rushed around us, and then he was there, Kaspian, sprinting over to me.

“Gods, Reyah I was so worried!” He pulled me into his arms and hugged me tightly. “Are you all right?”

“Yes, yes, I’m fine. I’m exhausted but fine.” I tried to give him a reassuring smile.

He was the same man I’d left only days ago; sweet and concerned and kind. But I was not the same woman.

He wrapped his arms around me again, and the sincerity with which he cared for me began to squeeze my heart with guilt. The whirl of emotions stirring in me was overwhelming, I was back at the palace, and as safe as I could be. The relief I felt washed over me and I began sobbing quietly in Kas’ arms.

“You’re safe now, Reyah, I’ve got you and I’m going to keep you safe.”

I nodded into him.

“Briggs!” I heard him shout. I turned to see Callan through the crowd, Kas pulled him in and hugged him with gratitude, keeping my hand held tightly in his.

“I can never repay you for this,” he said. The words sliced my heart as I shared a quick glance with Callan. “Thank you, brother.”

Kaspian kept me close, reluctant to allow me to go very far. “First, I’m going to take care of my wife,” he said. “Then I’ll send for you to tell me everything.”

“Certainly, Your Grace.”

“Bastien,” Kas called out, looking around for the footman.

“Here, Your Grace.” He pushed his way through the crowd. His eyes caught mine for the briefest moment as he nodded to me, and I could see the relief in his eyes.

“See that the general gets whatever he needs. Set him up in one of the guest quarters and send up a doctor.”

“Yes, Your Grace.”

“Come,” Kas said, pulling me away. “What do you need first?”

I didn’t get a last look back.

Chapter19

Reyah

Iwoke from a heavy sleep in the thick, warm sheets of a palace bed. My bed, the Queen’s bed. I’d never gotten to stay in my own quarters after our hurried marriage. It wasn’t the same room as Julienne’s, Kaspian knew I would never have allowed that, and perhaps he didn’t like the idea either.

Butmyroom was stunning. Everything was ivory and gold, from the blankets piled around me to the lush curtains framing the windows. The mantle of the hearth was edged in gold, the chairs were decorated with gold needlework. It was the most beautiful and elegant room I had ever seen. And I wished immensely that I felt like I deserved it.

Kaspian had set me in a bath when we’d come to my quarters last night. He’d told everyone to leave and bathed me himself, his hands so gentle on me. He’d helped me dress and brought me to the dining table that was ready with heaps of delicious foods. He thought it prudent that a doctor come in and see me, but the man and I spoke briefly, and he saw no immediate reason to be worried, and Kas seemed to relax after his assessment.

The King didn’t question me about what had happened, he just kept asking if I was all right and if there was anything at all he could do for me. Eventually I must have fallen asleep, and I had no clue as to what time, or even what day it was now.

I leaned over in bed and lightly tugged the hanging velvet rope. The lady’s maids must have been waiting right outside because as soon as the bell chimed, my door opened. They fussed and they coddled until I made it clear that all I wanted was coffee. A full breakfast cart was rolled into my room a moment later, and I politely asked everyone to leave as I sunk back into my bed with the hot drink and a glazed pastry. I think my eyes rolled to the back of my head at tasting the divine palace food again.

Halfway through my cup there was a gentle knock on the door, and Kas opened it slowly.

“You’re awake,” he said smiling.

“I am. I have no idea what time it is.”

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