Share
Chapter 79
“Who needs a bathtub this big?” I snorted into the humid air, listening to my voice bounce off the steam coated tile. Every breath felt thick, and the water near scalding as it held my aching limbs in it’s grasp.
I could feel the heat and see the redness of my skin, but there was no searing pain. Only the mouthwatering scent of ripe apples and cinnamon, which spewed from one of the faucets in the form of thick bath soap. It reminded me of the green apple soap mom would buy on her way home from work, and the pies her and Stella would competitively bake. I was fairly sure it was the same soap in my suite.
I couldn’t resist the allure of an apple scented bubble bath, not when my limbs protested from the slightest movement. The water reached the top of my breasts, leaving rosy marks wherever it lapped at my skin. The bathtub sloped upwards, leading to an area to recline. The waterproof cushions were warm to the touch, and far more inviting than any
Kaugnay na kabanata
Iridian Chapter 80
I wanted Apollo’s kind words to change how I felt about Dain. Really, I did. It was clear he cared about him, and there had been times where I thought the two acted like brothers. Only after swallowing bile and fermented guilt, was I able to see that they had an odd sort of friendship. It wasn’t his fault his king was so unbelievably annoying. Dain believed the way to my heart was to pester the living hell out of me. He seemed determined to push my boundaries, elated regardless of how I fought back. When he passed through the solid stone wall just an hour after Apollo managed to hang that gaudy painting, I let out another shriek. It was like he turned to mist and smoke, pouring through the wall as he reformed instantly. Even the painting of Apollo, which had moved several times within the confines of its frame, jolted at my outburst. My own scream pierced my ears, renewing the headache that had nearly faded into obscurity. Never in my
Iridian Chapter 81
Four hours later, when my headache had vanished and boredom long ago seeped deep into my bones, I flopped over on my bed and called out Leslie’s name.She materialized in the middle of the room, taking a few seconds to realize where I was. I watched her bouncy, curly hair move as she spun on her heel.“My wolf is on edge; she needs to go for a run.” I called out, gazing at her upside-down form as the tendrils of my curly hair cascaded to the floor from where I hung off the bed.Leslie vanished without another word, abandoning not only myself but Rayna, who was now letting out the world’s most pitiful howl. She had given me time to adjust to this place and my surroundings, but the idea of never again shifting—it had her hackles rising.There was nothing safe about this place, but they had to have somewhere they could shift freely—just to run until the instinct to chase and hunt faded. Then again, I had yet to see Dain sh
Iridian Chapter 82
‘It would be best if we remained in contact with one another and try not to stray from my side.’ Stygian let out a snort as Dain’s silky voice continued in my head. ‘We have a couple hours before the sun sinks too low.’‘Yeah, about that—what kind of creatures are in the forest?’Hundreds of images flashed through my head, nymphs and banshees, cunning and haunting. Ghouls that croaked and whispered dark promises. I had read about countless creatures in the books lining the walls of the training room and was surprised by how much I actually remembered.‘There are thousands of various creatures within my kingdom, living in the forests and mountains. Many of them migrate, so it’s near impossible to track all of them. This particular area is favorited by shape shifters.’Shifting after these last few weeks, it felt like a broken bone finally forced back in place. The pain was almost pleasant, a
Iridian Chapter 83
I knew the words were a mistake the moment the stars in his eyes winked out, leaving only blackness.I couldn’t help myself, really. As soon as the domed platters glided into the dining room on invisible arms, coasting through the air as they set themselves neatly on the table, it reminded me of what Apollo had said. I suppose I truly was impulsive, because the words were out of mouth and into the air before I could blink.“I asked Apollo why all of your servants are invisible.”The fork stilled in his hand, the perfectly carved piece of chicken still steaming away. With his bulky form and that glint of madness in his eyes, it was almost amusing to watch the methodical way he would eat.“Really, and what did Apollo say?” He drawled lazily, and resumed his eating, which would have been effective if his eyes weren’t pits of never-ending darkness, honed on the blush that seared my face.“He told me to ask you.
Iridian Chapter 84
“You—you’re one of the servants…you’re visible!” I lifted my jaw from the floor and snapped it shut, still struggling for words. There was something fluttering deep in my chest, pattering like a hummingbird’s wings. “I’m sorry, uh—do you know where I can find Dain?”“According to what some of the other servants are saying, the King is going to be busy for the remainder of the day.” He replied softly, his smile kind and polite. Something about the salt and pepper hair reminded me of my grandpa, instantly softening me. “Would you not like breakfast, your Majesty?”“Oh—not at the moment. If you could have something sent to the training room later, I would appreciate it.” I replied with a frown, a bit disappointed. I was still stunned, trying to process his strange change of heart. I wasn’t sure what I had expected last night, but it wasn’t this. I turne
Iridian Chapter 85
Iridian‘You avoid me all day, and now you want access to my thoughts? I don’t think so, Dain.’‘I’m not asking for access, only a conversation, darling—and I wasn’t avoiding you.’ His voice was silky smooth, an alluring distraction since he hadn’t given me any actual answers.‘Really?’ I mused, feeling a rush of cold behind my closed eyelids. The only reason I hadn’t cast him out yet, was because he hadn’t tried to delve past the hastily constructed barriers that hid my darkest, most desperate thoughts. Even though he could, he remained rooted in place, hearing only what I wanted him to. ‘When I woke up this morning, I ran into one of your servants. A very visible servant. You removed the spell you placed on them, knowing I’d see them and have questions. Typically, Apollo or Leslie let me know when you’re busy, whatever that might mean. So, why were you avoiding me?&rs
Iridian Chapter 86
RachelI had taken even longer in the bath, savoring the echoes of pleasure that still danced across my skin before the inevitable horror set in. As I had thought, the brisk air that pecked my skin, it had a sobering affect on my clouded mind. Wrapping myself in a robe made of shimmering silk, I tried to figure out what the hell had come over me.‘What was that? I’ve never done anything like that in my life.’ I sputtered, tearing the blankets off the bed to burrow beneath them.My stomach was still twisting and turning, an after affect of the lingering adrenaline in my veins. I stifled my laugh, replaying the sound of his frustrated snarl, and how he had lunged for me seconds before I cast him from my thoughts.He hadn’t asked for permission to enter again, but I could feel him lingering, waiting for another taste.‘You were taking control of the game. I mean, that’s what all of this is, right?’ Rayna shrug
Iridian Chapter 87
Days had passed and Dain still hadn’t brought up the festival of Night and Day. Part of me felt smug, because clearly, he was learning I hated being told what to do. Especially by cocky, infuriating, and down right tempting Alpha King’s. An even smaller part of me hoped he was considering going, finally showing his face after keeping it hidden for so long.From morning until afternoon, I threw myself into my training with Apollo. Per his suggestion, I started off small. It was ridiculous, the headaches I would get as I stared at the splintered oak door, trying to will it shut. The other half of my training was spent staring at the dusty books that lined the walls.Closing the door, making a book’s pages turn, even bolting the lock—it felt frustratingly impossible.“You’re trying too hard.” A sing-song voice shattered my concentration, I craned my stiff neck to glare at Apollo.“I am not.” I hissed, rei
Pinakabagong kabanata
