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Malachi’s jaw tightened. He rested his chin on his fist as he stared at me. “Never,” he answered. “I won’t let that happen.”

My first instinct was to defend myself. I didn’t need Mal watching over me. I could take care of my power on my own.

But I knew, deep down, that I needed him. I needed his help to control my power.

“Okay,” was all I managed to say.

The doors to the dining room suddenly ripped open, causing me to jump in my seat.

Malachi tensed immediately. “What is it?” he asked the guard who entered.

“There’s a problem in the castle’s dining hall, King Malachi,” he said. “Your presence is requested.”

Malachi tossed his head back and exhaled a long, exhausted breath. I observed him closely, noticing the way he rubbed his hands across his face.

Malachi would make a great king. I never doubted that. But I also knew that deep down, the pressure would get to him.

“Fine,” Malachi answered. “I’ll be there in a moment. Leave us.”

The guard nodded and left the room, leaving Mal and I alone once more.

“Duty calls,” I mumbled.

“Not yet,” he said. “I have something to show you.”

He stood up and walked toward the rear entrance of the dining room. When I didn’t follow, he stopped in his tracks. “Are you coming?” he asked.

“Why should I?”

“Trust me,” he pushed. “You’re going to want to see this.”

I debated my options. I could sit there being stubborn, being difficult in any way possible and refusing to cooperate. Or, I could follow him, which would undoubtedly be seen as a win in his eyes.

I had to admit, though, Iwascurious.

“Fine,” I said, standing from my chair. “But if this is a trick, I’m taking my power out on you next time.”

Malachi laughed quietly. “I’d expect nothing less.”

I followed him through the door into a dark hallway. “What is this?” I asked.

“These are the old servant quarters. We haven’t used them in ages, but they’re still here.”

I instinctively reached forward to grab Malachi’s hand in the darkness, but pulled back once I realized what I was doing.

“Dark, secret, abandoned tunnels in the fae castle. Sure. Not creepy at all,” I mumbled.

“We’re almost there,” he ushered. “It’s just right up…yes. In here.” He twisted the doorknob on an old, wooden door and pushed it open. “After you.”

I stepped forward and ducked through the dark doorway. The air was much warmer inside of the room, and my eyes quickly adjusted to a few lanterns of light.

“Jade?” a voice I recognized squeaked from the back of the room.

And then my eyes found Tessa.

“Saints,” I whispered. “Tessa.”

I wanted to run to her and crush her in my arms, but after our last interaction, I was hesitant.