Page 148 of A Court of Wings and Shadows

My heart dropped.

Without a word, they turned and began to lead us through the courtyard, toward the looming doors of the castle, rain thundering around us like a warning.

The rain still clung to my skin as we crossed the polished marble of the castle foyer, the guards’ boots echoing like war drums through the vaulted corridors. The moment we stepped beneath the arched entrance to the royal court, I yanked my hand from Remy’s.

He hesitated but let me go—reluctantly, like parting with something he wasn’t ready to release.

I didn’t look back.

The massive chamber opened before us, lined with towering pillars and glass mosaics that shimmered with the moonlight beyond. At its center, elevated atop three steps and framed by silk banners, sat the throne.

And Theron sat upon it.

Clad in dark-navy and obsidian robes stitched with gold thread, he lounged as if he were born to rule, one leg draped lazily over the other, his fingers steepled beneath his chin, a wolfish smile curling his lips.

Remy arched a brow. “That’s a little presumptuous, even for you, Theron.”

Theron rose slowly, his magnificent robes swirling about him like a storm given form. “Don’t give me your back talk, Remy. I supported your endeavors, even when you lost your way.”

His eyes slid to me then, sharp and appraising.

“She seems to have a knack for making men fall for her,” he said smoothly. “She must be a spectacular lay.”

I flinched at the venom beneath the silk of his words.

Remy took a step forward, fury sharpening his face. “Watch your mouth, Theron.”

“Oh? Did I strike a nerve?” Theron smirked. “You forget your place far too often for a man with little blood.”

“You forget yours for a prince who can’t ride a dragon.”

The chamber stilled.

Theron’s smile vanished, and his voice dropped cold and dangerous. “I could have you executed for that.”

The words hung in the air like a blade waiting to fall.

Then the chamber doors creaked again.

The king wandered in, eyes unfocused, beard slightly damp from the rain. His robe trailed behind him like a shadow torn from its master.

He looked lost, until his gaze landed on Remy.

A bright, boyish smile spread across his face.

“Remand! What are you doing here?”

Remy turned to him, his expression softening, like muscle memory had taken over. “Just being reprimanded by Theron. He wishes to execute me.”

The king chuckled, completely unfazed. “Ah, boys will be boys! Of course he’s only kidding. You’re pardoned of all wrongdoing.”

He waved a hand like he was blessing the entire court.

And just like that, the tension shattered.

Theron stood stiff, expression flickering with barely restrained fury.

And Remy… smiled.