Page 64 of A Warrior's Heart

Though Lorcan’s expression didn’t falter, I saw his eyes spark with surprise. He was caught off guard.

“The assassins are some of Avalontis’ greatest warriors,” Lorcan responded. “As a land dweller, I know you aren’t familiar with the politics of my people, nor are you aware of the current state of affairs of my kingdom. Before the Black Hallows battle, many merfolk rebelled against my father and thought to take my life. There have been several attempts to kill me ever since. The assassins are for my protection on this journey, to ensure that I come to no harm. As for the pirate, he is indebted to my father and is only giving me safe passage.”

I fought a smile. His quick thinking might have just spared us a fight.

But did James believe the lie?

The king studied him, brow furrowed and eyes dark. Then, his whole demeanor shifted, and he took Lorcan’s hand in his. “My poor little fish. What a hard life you’ve led. How difficult it must be not knowing who you can trust in this world. Anyone can be an enemy.” He smoothed his thumb along Lorcan’s ring before following the chain attached to the bracelet. “If ever you need a friend… or something more… I’m here.”

Something more.I could’ve taken his head right then.

“Thank you, King James.” Lorcan laid his hand over the king’s. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

Lorcan was playing a dangerous game. But it was our best option. If James suspected, even for a moment, that we knew his plan to find the trident, it would be a bloodbath.

“I won’t keep you any longer,” the king said, standing from the table. “I’m sure your father is expecting you.”

Lorcan stood and tossed a coin on the table for his ale. “You can pay next time.”

“My, my.” James smirked as he and Lorcan walked toward the door. “Here you are speaking of future meetings, while at the same time, you’re on your way home to meet a possible husband. My heart is wounded, sweet prince.”

After being in the dimly lit tavern, the sun was almost blinding as we stepped out into the daylight. A wagon carrying a cart of vegetables and sacks of potatoes passed by, kicking up dirt. Through the cloud of dust, I saw a figure in a black cloak standing across the road. The hood was up, but beneath it, there was a flash of silver hair.

I jolted forward to approach the hooded figure, but another wagon came barreling down the path nearly running me over.

“Easy there,” James said to me. “The prince is surrounded by threats everywhere he goes. You should stay more alert. You never know when the enemy might strike.”

I glowered at him, wanting nothing more than to grab him by the back of his golden hair and rip his head from his shoulders.

James turned back to Lorcan and kissed the top of his hand, letting his lips linger on Lorcan’s knuckle. “Would it be too bold of me to add my name to your list of possible suitors? Just imagine how much closer it would bring our people to have a union of marriage between the land and sea.”

Lorcan gaped at him before quickly recovering. “I’ll consider your offer, though I’m certain my father will voice disagreement.”

“Perhaps I can someday sway your father,” King James responded, then stepped back from Lorcan and bowed his head. “Safe travels, little fish.”

I followed Lorcan as he left the king’s side and headed through the market. He said nothing, but the tightness in his jaw told me he was nearly at his breaking point.

As we walked, I cast my gaze upward, seeing Shar as he jumped from one roof to another, then quickly disappeared behind a chimney. Ervin did the same on the other side. Only those with a keen eye would notice them, even in broad daylight.

When we returned to the ship, Alek threw his arms around Lorcan. The prince pressed their cheeks together and briefly shut his eyes, breathing in his mate’s scent.

“What did—”

“Hold me,” Lorcan said, curling his fingers in Alek’s tunic and nestling closer. “Please.”

Alek met my eye, confused, but obeyed the prince’s request, holding him close. Lorcan pulled away after a moment and squared his shoulders, moving his gaze among everyone on deck.

Troy sat beneath the stairs, the fear in his eyes making my heart ache.

“Let’s set sail,” Lorcan ordered. “We’ve been delayed long enough.”

***

“Curse this thing,” Lorcan hissed, throwing the gold bracelet James had bought for him to the floor.

I had joined him and Alek in their cabin after he’d told everyone aboard about the meeting. We’d waited until the ship left the harbor before speaking to anyone. Just in case the king had spies lurking about.

I stared at the discarded jewelry, remembering the wonder in Lorcan’s eyes when the king had placed it on his wrist. EvenIhad started to question whether his interest was real, and I’d known him his whole life.