The Treaty

Ryatt

Maddox watches me from across the coffee table loaded with breakfast foods. Pastries, fruit, and meat sit on delicate plates, surrounded by bottles of juice and three carafes of hot coffee.

So far, coffee is all we’ve touched.

He’s just been… staring at me. Staring at me for twenty minutes now.

I clear my throat, pouring myself a third cup of coffee. “I believe congratulations are in order,” I say. “Two healthy princes and a Luna still living is nothing to scoff at.”

“It’s a blessing, to be sure.” Maddox glances at the door, then back at me. “I don’t expect Isaac to come to this meeting today.”

“We can discuss your terms without him. He might be the king, but he’s Ella’s brother.” I lean forward, resting my elbows on my knees. “Your opinion on this matter means more to me, and to her, than his.”

“Have you spoken to her about the idea of her staying here, at least until the baby is born?” Maddox eyes me cooly, sternly, radiating that primal aura all born Alphas possess.

“Of c