Page 97 of Brighter Than Gold

“Because I want all those assholes to hold their tongues, or I’ll give them something to be upset about.” I could tell she was repressing a smile.

“I believe that is heresy, Your Grace.”

“I believe you’re right, Princess.” I winked at her and then tucked her arm around the crook of my elbow. “Let’s get this over with.”

* * *

Reyah

My palms were damp with sweat as we made our way down to the dining room. And I felt weak at the knees. This moment is probably what I had been dreading most since agreeing to Kaspian’s proposition, facing the other families. My thoughts battled between wanting desperately to be liked and accepted, to wanting to be callous and unconcerned about their opinion of me.

We walked up to looming double doors, butlers and footmen everywhere in sight to attend to any need the regal guests may have. Kas paused and turned to me just before the doors were opened.

“Remember, I love you regardless of your family, I love you because of the incredible woman you are. I love you because we are sharing something that bonds us deeper than the oaths or promises I’ve sworn to the Realm, or to those Kings. I am confident and proud of having you as my wife.”

Kas smiled so tenderly, I thought my heart may fall into my stomach.

“Take a breath, Little Raven. No tears tonight.”

I did as he asked and took in a deep breath, holding it a moment before exhaling slowly.

“Good,” he whispered. He nodded and the double doors were pushed open for us.

All eyes in the room snapped to me as we entered. I tried my best to remain calm and exude dignity and integrity. Several people smiled, others stared holes into me, but all were curious.

Kaspian led me to our seats at the center of the long table and the chairs were pulled out for us.

“Everyone, I’m happy to introduce you to my wife, Reyah,” Kaspian said pleasantly. His address garnered several nods and more polite smiles, and it was clear that that was all the declaration he was going to give. As we sat, the food was immediately served, and a quiet chatter began amongst the guests. My eyes darted quickly from one King to the next. Aldridge talked pensively with Dornan across the table.

And Warrick.

My stomach turned seeing him, and the terror I’d felt being held as Lazio’s prisoner came flooding back in. I was told his relationship with the outlaw would be handled internally and discreetly, but would he know that the information came from Callan and I? It made me nervous to be around him.

The villainous King had a hand possessively over Cressida’s massive swollen belly. The baby was due any day now and the Realm eagerly awaited a bit of rare, good news.

“Welcome, Reyah,” said a shy voice beside me. I turned and reeled when I found myself seated next to Prince Darian. A feeling of reassurance began to chip away at my compounded nerves when I saw the young man.

“Darian!” I exclaimed. “I’m so happy to see you!” Kas gave my knee a quick squeeze under the table, as though he’d arranged for me to be seated next to the only member of the royal families that I knew.

“And I you, Princess.” He cocked his head when he spoke the word.

“Please don’t call me that, I don’t think I’ll ever be comfortable hearing it.”

He gave me a knowing smile. “We’ve heard you’ve been through quite the ordeal.”

“I—yes,” I sighed.

“Well, I’m glad you’re back safely.” He reached for his wine as a butler finished pouring.

My cheeks flushed suddenly, and I leaned to whisper in Kas’ ear.

“Do the Kings remember me from the gentleman’s club?” This is the first time they’d seen me since then, and I hadn’t had time to process this particular fear yet.

“No my darling, only Darian remembers you because you shared the carriage ride. And he is far too much of a gentleman to ever utter a word.”

I took a steadying breath and nodded. There was a light tug on my elbow, and I turned to find a young girl, perhaps nine or ten years old beaming up at me.

Darian laughed. “Reyah, this is my sister Juno. She’s been very excited to meet you.”

---