Rook Page 12

  Edrik gets up from the chair he has been sitting in and crosses the room over to me. He stares into my eyes and gives me the smirk I have come to love so much.

  “We can commit to each other here and now. That way, when you are standing beside the Prince tomorrow, we will know who you truly belong to. There will never again be any doubt in your head that you are forever ours.”

  These guys of mine. How did I get so lucky to be fated to a pair of amazing, sexy men like this?

  Rook stands, removing his amulet, and walks over to us, sitting on the right side of the bed. Edrik removes his amulet before lifting mine over my head, all three of us now with our matching lavender eyes staring at one another.

  Edrik and Rook each take one of my hands in theirs, and the serious looks they both have make me laugh. I may have let out a little snort in there. I can't help it. After I get myself under control, Rook gives my hand a squeeze and takes a deep breath.

  “Cara, I promise to always be there to make you laugh, to work hard, to make you proud of the man I am, and to every once in a while, throw you up against a tree.”

  “Do I even want to know about this tree?”

  I pull my hand free from Edrik’s and gently pat his cheek. “No, baby, you probably don't.”

  Rook gives a nod to Edrik, letting him know that he is done. He is a man of few words. Edrik picks my hand back up and proceeds to commit himself to me.

  “My Princess. Chess, I swear to always be your sword and your shield. I will give my life for yours, and I vow to always love and support you in all the things you do. I also promise to have grotto time as often as possible.”

  He throws a wink at me with that last comment, and a laugh erupts from Rook. “Do I even want to know about grotto time?”

  The three of us all laugh at this. For the first time, I feel complete. These two men have burrowed themselves so deep into my soul that I could never let them go. I let them know this with my commitment pledge to them.

  “I vow to love both of you with all that I am. I will be your partner, your helper, and your protector. You will never wonder how much I love you because I will show you every moment of every day. I also promise to allow you, Rook, tree time and you, Knight, grotto time.”

  I lean over and kiss Rook, expecting it to be sweet, but he takes it in a whole other direction. I gasp at the force he kisses me with, and he uses that as an opening to slip his tongue in my mouth. As soon as we break for a breath, Edrik has my chin in his hand, and is turning my head toward him, delivering his own bruising kiss.

  I let out a small moan when I feel Rook’s callused hands begin rubbing up and down my thigh. Edrik pulls back long enough to lift my shirt over my head, then leans back in for another kiss. Rook wastes no time moving his hands to my chest roughly kneading my breasts. Edrik stops kissing me and looks over at Rook. He gives him a little nod and a smirk. That is the only warning I get before Edrik pushes me back on the bed and removes the rest of my clothing.

  Rook takes the opportunity to capture my lips in a passionate kiss. I am lost in him when Edrik nudges my legs apart. He slides his warm hands up my calves and across my thighs pulling them even farther apart. I feel his stubble graze along my legs, and it causes goosebumps to erupt along my skin. Rook slides his tongue between my lips at the same moment Edrik slides his between my folds. The sensation has me bucking off the bed, but Edrik places his palm on my stomach, holding me down. They continue their torture with their expert tongues. Rook is alternating between massaging my breasts and pinching my nipples. He is giving me just enough pain to send jolts of pleasure throughout my body. Edrik is sucking on my clit while sliding two of his long fingers into me, and in no time the orgasm builds in my core. They both keep teasing my body until the tremors stop, and I am in heavenly bliss. They remove their clothing and crawl back on the bed. Edrik is giving me a smoldering look that would melt my panties off, if I were wearing any. Rook is giving me a look that reminds me of the cheshire cat in my favorite fairytale. The next thing I know, Edrik has flipped me over, putting me on my hands and knees. He grabs my hips and pulls me to him, and I feel his erection slowly entering me. He is going so agonizingly slow that I can’t take it anymore. I push backward until he has completely filled me. He feels so good. He feels like home.

  Rook, not wanting to be ignored kneels in front of me and is rubbing his large cock across my lips. I taste his salty precum coating my lips, and I want nothing more than to take him into my mouth. I open my lips, and Rook needs no more encouragement.

  Edrik starts thrusting from behind, causing me to take Rook even farther down my throat. I alternate between sucking and licking his shaft while Edrik takes me from behind. Having my men together with me at the same time is amazing. I feel Rook throbbing between my lips right before he cums down my throat. I swallow every last drop and relish in his taste. Edrik leans over my back and whispers in my ear, “That was so hot.” He slides his hand between my thighs and pinches my swollen nub. That is all I need. The best orgasm I have ever had comes crashing down on me, and my body spasms in tiny convulsions. I am limp as a noodle as Rook catches me when my knees give out, and I begin to fall forward. He lies back and cradles my head to his chest while Edrik slides up next to us. That is how I fall asleep, cradled in Rook’s arms as Edrik rubs his hand up and down my spine.

  36

  The Prince Becomes The King

  The next morning Rook, Edrik, Hawkeye, and I prepare to leave for the Dark Fey Kingdom. My parents along with Shelby and Colton will stay behind. The risk is just too great for them to come, and we can’t leave the castle unattended or unprotected. If they were to attend, we would have to take too many members of the army with us, leaving the Light Fey vulnerable.

  I stand in front of my gold-leaf trifold mirror, looking at the woman staring back at me. I have dressed up for today’s occasion. I am in an emerald-green gown, the color of the Light Fey Kingdom. My hair falls down my back in perfect waves thanks to Shelby. Of course, on my feet are my trusted ballet flats. I still refuse to attempt heels.

  Once I am completely dressed, I slip the amulet over my head. Being with Edrik and Rook, I have gotten used to not wearing it while in my room, especially in their presence. Both of them prefer to see my eyes as they are meant to be. They tell me there is nothing more beautiful than looking into my lavender eyes, the true sign that I have been chosen just for them.

  I reach for the box that has been placed on the desk for me, opening it up to reveal the tiara inside. This is the point where Gretchen would begin to knock on my door, reminding me that I was running late. I smile sadly at the memories this moment brings back, as I place the tiara on my head. She will no longer be doing this for me.

  A knock interrupts my thoughts. I open the door to find my Knight on the other side. He is dressed in his Royal guard uniform. His pants and shirt are both slate gray and there is the forest-green Light Fey Kingdom’s crest displayed over the right side of his chest.

  “You look beautiful, Princess.”

  I smack Edrik on the arm before placing my hand in the crook of his elbow. We make our way down the winding staircase. At the bottom, I am greeted by my other fated mate.

  Rook looks handsome in his Renegade attire. It is the usual black tee, black cargo pants and shined combat boots. When I get near, Rook reaches out his arm, and I take it as well. I am now flanked on either side as we walk out of the castle doors.

  We join the guards outside and begin our journey. Today is a pivotal day for Winston as he becomes King of the Dark Fey. I am supposed to stand by him, showing unity and support for both Kingdoms. The announcement for our betrothal was to take place today, but due to my parents not being able to attend, it has been pushed back. Again. You would think they would see this as a sign.

  “Are you ready for the big day, Princess?”

  “Shut it, Hawkeye.”

  The Dark Fey Kingdom is very different from the Light. Where our Kingdom is flat and covered in fo
liage, the Dark Kingdom is rugged and surrounded by mountains. There are hardly any plants or trees, making it look dreary.

  Once we arrive at the Dark Fey castle, we are escorted through the foyer, past the massive staircase, and to the grand gathering room where we see Queen Isabelle and Winston. Winston and his Mother approach me. The Queen, still in mourning, is wearing a black gown with her golden crown atop of her head. Winston is wearing a dark suit with a vibrant blue tie. It is the same shade as the Dark Fey Kingdom’s flag. On his back, hangs the Royal cape with the Dark Fey crest, and it is attached by a golden clasp around his neck, and on his head is his current crown. He looks very regal and like a true King.

  “Hello, Franchesca. You look lovely today.”

  “Thank you, Queen Isabelle. You are looking beautiful as always.”

  “Dear, please escort Franchesca’s guests to the back patio. I would like to visit with her for a moment.”

  Winston nods and leads Edrik, Rook, and Hawkeye out back where I am assuming the ceremony will be taking place. Queen Isabelle takes my hand and leads me near the unlit fireplace.

  “I was so very sorry to hear about King Richard.”

  “Thank you. We have both suffered great loss at the hands of Armand. I, too, am sad to hear of Gretchen’s passing. Hopefully, with the two Kingdoms working together, they can find and eliminate that evil bastard.”

  The Queen takes me off guard with her description of Armand and I have to stop myself from laughing before I can reply to her. “Yes, ma’am. I hope so, too.”

  “I wanted to speak to you about your marriage announcement. I know we are not doing it today since your parents could not be here. I think the best thing for both Kingdoms is to push the wedding up. We need a united front now, more than ever.”

  It takes a moment for her words to set in. Is she telling me they want to push up the marriage between me and Winston? Give me strength.

  “I will certainly pass along what you said to my Mother.”

  “Very good. Excuse me, I see someone I must speak with.”

  I practically run outside as soon as she leaves me. I find the guys sitting around a table in deep conversation with Winston.

  “Gentleman.”

  “Princess. How was your talk with Mother?”

  “It was very informative. Did you know she wants to push our farce of a wedding up? We need to show a united front, and obviously our two Kingdoms can’t do that without us getting hitched. What difference does it make as long as we work together?”

  Winston lets out a long sigh. “Not right now, Princess, okay. I have enough to get through today. I do not need to hear how horrible our ‘farce’ of a marriage would be for you.”

  “You said it yourself, you did not want to marry me! Why are you being so confusing right now?”

  I hear a trumpet in the distance, and Winston lifts his hand out toward me.

  “Look, it is time to begin. Can we discuss this after the crowning? Please?”

  I accept his hand and drop the subject. Winston is right, today is all about him and his crowning. We can discuss how to call off our impending betrothal later.

  Winston and I walk up on the stage and stand in front of the officiant. The stage has been sparsely decorated with only two pedestals. One holds his new crown, the other holds a box similar to what my tiara is stored in. In lieu of decorating, the backdrop focuses on the mountains off in the distance.

  “Kneel please, Prince Winston.”

  I take a step back to give Winston more room.

  Winston kneels on a large, red-velvet pillow and bows his head. The officiant takes the crown off of Winston's head and hands it to me. I turn and place the Princes crown inside of the empty box on the pedestal, then clasp it closed. The officiant then takes the King’s crown off of the pedestal standing to his right and holds it above Winston's head.

  “Please repeat after me: I, Prince Winston, do solemnly swear to govern the Dark Fey Kingdom and all its principalities. In my power, I will maintain the law in order to protect my people. I will use my power to execute justice and mercy. The things which I promised, I will perform and keep.”

  Winston repeats the oath, and after he is finished, the officiant places the King’s crown on his head.

  “Rise, King Winston of the Dark Fey Kingdom, and face your people.”

  I watch Winston stand to his full height, his shoulders pulled back, a new regal look on his face that I have never seen before. He looks out over the crowd, almost as if he is cataloging each and every person in the crowd.

  The officiant finishes by presenting Winston in his official capacity.

  “It is my honor to present to you, King Winston. Long live the King!”

  I can’t help the smile on my face, and when I look over at Winston, he is wearing one just as big. He will make a truly wonderful King.

  As we exit the stage, Winston places my hand on his forearm and leads me to a large white tent where the celebration feast will be held. Inside the tent, are rows of long tables covered with white tablecloths and vibrant blue runners. Vases with fresh flowers that matches those on the crowning stage sit atop each one. Along the side of the tent is a buffet, covered in meats, vegetables, and small cakes. There is also a champagne fountain off to the side. A large table sits at the head of the tent where Winston, his mother, and I will be seated. Across from us is where Edrik, Rook, and Hawkeye are seated. It is a feast fit for a king.

  The officiant of the coronation stands and taps his wine glass with a fork, trying to obtain the guests’ attention. “I present to you, the new King of the Dark Fey Kingdom! Raise your glasses in respect.”

  I can feel the color draining from my face. I am not sure how I am going to get out of this betrothal, but I know that I will never leave my fated mates. In unison, the crowd lifts their glasses and begins to chant, “long live the King, long live the King.”

  I look over to see the three guys laughing hysterically. I discreetly lift up my middle finger at them.

  The next thing I know, people are screaming and starting to run for the exits. We see men dressed in dark fatigues with a blood red ‘A’ on their chests, running to the tent. They begin to cut through the ropes connecting it to the stakes in the ground. The tent collapses on us, and hysteria breaks out. Winston grabs my hand and begins pulling me in the direction of where the guys were seated. I hear them yelling for us just seconds before we find them. Hawkeye grabs my other hand, and the five of us begin working our way to the back and outside.

  “Something is not right. There are only a few dozen soldiers here. Where is the rest of Armand’s army?” Rook looks around, trying to figure out where the rest of the men must be hiding.

  “How do you know it is Armand doing this?” Winston asks Rook, as he fists his hands in his hair.

  “They have his signature ‘A’ on their uniforms.” Rook answers Winston, then turns his attention to his second in command. “Hawkeye, shift and fly back to the Light Kingdom. I have a bad feeling about all of this.”

  Hawkeye rushes off to shift and begins his flight back home.

  “What are you thinking, Rook?” Edrik asks.

  “I just don't know. If he was serious about attempting an assault here, there would be hundreds of soldiers surrounding us. This feels like a distraction.”

  The Dark Fey army takes over quickly. The battle that started only moments ago, is over before it really began.

  We walk around, checking on the injured to see if we can offer any assistance. Before long, Hawkeye returns, his eyes wild and fury rolling off of him.

  “You were right. This wasn't the main fight. There are at least a thousand of Armand’s men back at the Light Kingdom.”

  “Damn it. Okay, let's get back. Cara, please stay here where it is safe. Now that we know the real threat is back at your home, you can stay here and help with the wounded.”

  “No. Absolutely not. I am going back home to help. I am not some innocent girl, Rook.”

>   Rook searches my eyes and resolves himself, knowing there is no way I will stay here like a coward. My people need me, and I will be there fighting alongside them, as a Queen should.

  “Fine. Let’s go, but you stay back if you can. Don't go into a fight if it can be helped. Promise me, Cara.”

  “I promise.”

  37

  The Real Fight

  When we arrive back at the Light Kingdom, we stop to take in what we are witnessing. Hawkeye was right. There are at least a thousand of Armand’s soldiers surrounding the castle, and fights are breaking out everywhere. We stand at the edge of the forest that separates the Dark and Light Fey Kingdoms, keeping hidden while we watch in horror what is happening in front of us.

  Edrik turns to me, fury in his eyes. “We need to get you to the castle and find your parents.”

  “Cara, get behind us. We’ll make sure you have a clear path.”

  I look over at Rook, trying to understand what he is telling me. I guess he can see the confusion on my face because he answers the question I haven’t been able to ask.

  “Stay close to us. The four of us will start fighting off whoever gets in your way. You don’t have a sword on you, and they do. Please, just stay close.”

  Edrik, Hawkeye, Rook, and Winston all push away from the forest wall, each of them with their swords drawn. I stick as close to them as I can, unable to see exactly what is up ahead. I hear Rook first before I see him take down the first soldier that engages us. Once he is down, Rook bends over and picks up the fallen soldier’s sword and passes it to me. He gives me a wink, and we began to move again.

  They continue to fight their way closer to the castle. It feels like we are moving one inch at a time. Armand’s soldiers have noticed us and are beginning to attack from all angles. I am in the center of a circle the guys have created when suddenly I am jerked by the arm. When I look to see who has grabbed me, I see Hawkeye’s face, blood splattered all over it and him.