Page 14 of Claim Me

I comb my fingers through her hair and debate grabbing another towel.

Would it be weird to wrap up her hair for her?I wonder, frowning.Can I even do that with her lying down?

Her cheeks have a faint pink to them again, her lips returning to their luscious red shade—something I try very hard not to focus on.

A man could easily lose himself in Fallon’s features.

She’s beautiful and strong and has the most fuckable mouth…

I clear my throat and pull my hand away, no longer comfortable touching her while she’s unconscious.

She’s maintained this irresistible pull over me from the moment we met, almost as though we’re fated mates. But we’re not.

As evidenced by the asshat in the dungeon downstairs.

And about that asshat…I think, shifting focus to my wrist again.It’s time for Kaspian’s announcement.

I pull up a hologram screen from my watch and select an icon that’ll connect me to the satellite network. It’s sort of like a television, but more advanced and fueled by magic.

Kaspian has all the fun toys, which, thankfully, he shares with his security team.

All of the channels are paused with a note scrolling across the screen regarding Kaspian’s impending broadcast. Everyone in Gold and Garnet knows what this is about. I’m guessing a few liaisons from other Houses are tuned in as well.

The attack on King Vesperus last year is widely known. Just as his leaving our world with his new goddess mate is renowned as well.

Kaspian taking over the role of king has been heavily observed, but it’s come as a surprise to no one that he’s handled the pressure well.

Vesperus groomed him for the position and it shows, especially as Kaspian takes over a podium on the screen. He’s wearing a crisp all-black suit, his expression politely bored.

He doesn’t immediately speak, instead giving everyone time to settle as he stares down his audience through the camera. His dark eyes are commanding, his presence dominant without coming off as suffocating. It’s a natural trait, one that somehow makes him both intimidating and approachable at the same time.

A formidable adversary.

Thankfully, we’re on the same side.

Kaspian clears his throat, the subtle sound commanding attention through the speakers. “Members and families of Gold and Garnet, welcome, and thank you for lending me your ears this morning. As most of you know, our Reykjavik base of operations was attacked last year by a deadly sleeping spell that threatened everyone within the city limits.”

He pauses for effect, the silence almost threatening.

“The purpose of that attack was to show discontent with King Vesperus’s decision to collaborate with and support the newly established House of Death and Diamond. While all of us are aware of the difficulties associated with the territory realignments, violence is never the answer.”

I nod, agreeing with him. Primarily because Bane and I were part of thatterritory realignment. Death and Diamond was created to house phantoms, and Vesperus was kind enough to not only agree with the formation of the new House but also reallocate his territories in the United Kingdom and Ireland to Death and Diamond.

As a result, Queen Sabrina’s Consort, Kieran, and King Vesperus worked out a partnership to help members of both Houses determine next steps for residence. Several Gold and Garnet members chose to stay and realign their loyalties with Death and Diamond, while others moved to different Gold and Garnet territories.

Meanwhile, Bane and I decided to shift allegiances to Gold and Garnet. Not because we particularly disliked Death and Diamond, but because we preferred the opportunities Gold and Garnet offered us.

“On that topic, I want to take a moment to thank Sovereign Niamh for all of her assistance in the relocations of our beloved Gold and Garnet members and families, as well as her loyalty to her constituents who are choosing to remain and realign themselves with the House of Death and Diamond.”

His eyes shift sideways to someone off-screen, presumably Niamh.

“For those of you who have not yet heard, Sovereign Niamh has announced that she will be remaining in Dublin rather than relocating to another Gold and Garnet territory. She will be greatly missed but has my full respect and support for her decision.”

The camera shifts to reveal the sea dragoness in question, her turquoise eyes bright against her darker features and skin. She dips her head, sending her black hair cascading forward like water, before righting herself in the chair. “It’s been an honor, King Kaspian.”

“Indeed it has,” he replies. “The House of Death and Diamond is lucky to have you. But know that you will always be welcome back here, should you ever find yourself craving chillier waters.”

Her lips curl. “I’m sure I will visit.”