Page 62 of Hunt Me

“There are others who are better equipped to serve as her guard.”

“You will be with her when she is not in my presence. Your compensation will be adjusted.”

“Am I expected to be both advisor and babysitter?”

“No.”

Ezra snorted. “I am expected to step down from my position,” he said matter-of-factly.

“Correct. And as I stated, you will be fairly compensated.”

“There isn’t enough money in the world,” Ezra insisted.

“Name your price.”

“Ten thousand gold coins monthly salary and your summer property in Garden Ridge.”

Luka’s jaw clenched at the mention of his Garden Ridge estate. He loved his summer home and spent his youth roaming the property and getting into all sorts of mayhem. It was also where he met Anastasia. He treasured the residence, but it was easy to let it go if that meant his queen and child were protected.

“Done. All I ask is that I be allowed to visit one last time with Matilda.”

“Very well. I, Lord Ezra Gustafson of Night Falls, officially relinquish my position as Head Advisor to King Luka Alesi, effective immediately.”

“I, King Luka Alesi of Night Falls, officially accept your resignation as Head Advisor, effective immediately. Thank you for your sacrifice. Take the next few days to yourself. Let us go, Matilda.”

She stared at him for a long moment before turning away without a word. Luka knew better than to mistake her silence for obedience. He was certain he would hear plenty once she decided he was worthy to speak to again.

***

Luka rubbed wearily at his temple as Matilda silently braided her curls at the vanity. It had been hours since he demanded her silence, and he had to be going insane because he missed her incessant teasing… immensely.

“You may speak.”

“I have nothing to say.”

“Your fever must’ve returned. You always have something to say.”

“Are you sure about this?” she asked, turning to face him.

“If you’re referring to Ezra becoming your bodyguard, then yes.”

“This estate in Garden Ridge must be something special.”

Luka sipped from his chalice with a scowl. There was nothing inherently wrong with the contents, but it wasn’t Matilda’s blood.

“It’s just a house.”

“Is that why it looked as if your best friend stabbed you in the back when he requested it?”

Luka chuckled into his cup before saying, “Do you make it a habit to see things that aren’t there?”

“Thank you,” she said sincerely. She knew the stubborn king wouldn’t admit weakness.

“There is nothing to thank. Make haste and come to bed.” Matilda rolled her eyes, washed her hands in a basin, and dried them. Luka licked his bottom lip as she sashayed to bed in her blood-red silk nightgown. He hardened at the sight of her swollen nipples pressing against the material. They hadn’t coupled since their carriage ride, and he was long overdue.

The stress of the day finally caught up to Matilda as soon as her back hit the mattress. She stared at the ceiling and threaded her fingers through Luka’s hair as he assumed the position with his ear pressed against her abdomen.

“How is it?” she asked sleepily.