Page 22 of Queens

His frown deepens as he stares into my cup. Why?

“Well?” I ask, trying to remain lighthearted. “Do you have something against coffee?”

The man licks his lips but doesn’t answer.

I take that as my cue to change the subject. “I still don’t know your name.”

“May I sit?” He gestures to the chair opposite me.

After you tell me your name, you fuckwit.

I nod. “Yes.”

The man lowers to sit, his long limbs unnaturally graceful as he makes himself comfortable at my table. He’s playing with me, and I’m finding it hard to remain calm. He probably considers this flirting. He has no reason to suspect I have ulterior motives. I’ve given him no reason to think so. I’m being paranoid.

“Your name?” I repeat. I hate repeating myself.

“Rexton.”

“Rexton.” The name feels heavy on my tongue. “That’s a Wrath name.”

It’s more than that. It’s not a common name, but it’s one almost exclusively used by the nobility. It’s reserved for a firstborn son, but it’s not nearly as popular as it once was. I’ve heard the name in my studies, but I’ve never encountered anybody with the name.

Rexton rests his hands on the table and interlaces his fingers. “I’m surprised you know that. It isn’t common knowledge.” He blinks. “You’re the first person to make the connection.”

Well, fuck me.

“I’m fascinated by the royal houses.” The lie rolls smoothly off my tongue. “And I have a particular interest in Wrath.”

Rexton smiles. “Oh? Why’s that?”

“I don’t know any woman who wouldn’t be interested in bonding with three powerful men. It’s intriguing.”

I push down a gag at what I’m saying. I don’t enjoy thinking deeply about the fact that my parents are bonded and share a sacred, intimate connection. I objectively know that my siblings and I are a result of that bond and intimacy, but I don’t like thinking about it.

Rexton laughs, though, so I know my response was the right one. I’ve found the best lies are the ones that remain close to the truth. Iamfascinated by the royal houses, mainly because I’m a part of one, and Idohave a particular interest in Wrath, mainly because I’m to rule it once my father steps down.

“It’s rare to meet a Greed who so openly admits to finding the Wrath Trio attractive.”

I take a large gulp of my coffee, not caring that it burns my throat. This topic is going in a direction I don’t want it to, andI need to nip this segue in the bud before my disgust becomes visible.

A throat clears beside us. “Would you like anything to eat?”

Thank fuck.

I spin toward the waitress. It’s annoying how she’s managed to sneak up on me again, but I’m too pleased by the distraction her presence brings to be upset. I avoid Rexton as I scan over my forgotten menu. Nothing stands out. I’ve lost my appetite.

“I’m okay, after all,” I say, handing her the menu. “But thanks.”

The waitress nods, then disappears. I let my eyes casually trail back to Rexton. I don’t want to send the impression that I’m giddy to be speaking with him. I’m casual. I’m calm. I’m far from desperate.

“And your name?” Rexton asks.

“Luna.”

Rexton smiles, his full lips spreading to reveal a set of perfect teeth. “Luna?”

I nod. “Yes.”