Page 32 of Unmasked

“What is the cost of becoming queen?”

… “Everything.”

“I don’t want you to go to Scotland.”

“I know you want these trials over with, but I’m not ready. I still have much to learn. Katia… she escaped us earlier.”

My lids snapped open.

“You saw her?”

“King Lawrence sent me flowers. Able is allergic so I went to put them outside, in the back. I caught her off-guard. We both froze, but then I threw the flowers and vase at her. She started to come for me. I guess we were both going after each other, but she stopped because she saw Able come out behind me. She did say I made a big mistake before she ran. Her speed. Her skill. Vaughn, she scaled the back wall like it was nothing. By the time Able jumped up there, she was already gone.” She paused. “If I can’t even keep up with her, I stand no chance in the trials.”

Flowers—King Lawrence—Katia.

More, my anger flared, but she continued.

“This ends on Holy Night. I want to implement our plan then. She can’t stay away. She lost control over me, and it’s driving her insane. I saw it in her face. Her determination will lead her wherever I steer it. I want to deliver her to The Order. That gives me three days before I leave. After that, you can do whatever you want with her.”

“Done. I will let The Reeve know to be prepared.”

“Thank you.” She paused. “Everything is going to be okay. I know we don’t like what I must do, but the four days in Scotland will pass quickly, and I’ll be back before you know it. The king will lose his interest, and then we can focus on the trials. No more distractions. Just me, working my ass off to become your wife.”

A weak laugh left me, and I let out a deep breath.

It can’t come fast enough. I want this over. I want you as my queen.”

“And I will be when I’m worthy. You deserve that.”

My brow creased, and I shifted in my chair.

“Do I deserve it?”

The question was more for me than her.

Penelope paused, and ringing had me looking down as she video called me. I hit the button, taking in her concern.

“Talk to me.”

My lips twisted. “I do not feel worthy of you. You’re learning. You’re fighting. You’re stepping into a role that could very well kill you. Not just in the trials, but in life. It’s only going to get harder once you’re my queen.”

“Are you not hunted? Were you not born into a life you did not choose? Have you not put in the work to be king?” She got quiet, letting me take in her questions. “Life is full of sacrifices, Vaughn. We all must face them. It’s what we do with what we’re left with that deems our worth. Not anyone could run a country. King Lawrence is a prime example of that. The country is falling apart. Half the people hate him. He threatens war on any country who doesn’t agree with his every demand. You should be king. You are worthy, and when I am fit to stand by your side… we will rise.”

“Yes.”

Penelope gave a nod. “Good. No more questioning our path. We are worthy of each other, and I choose this life, no matter what happens. I accept the risk. Now, talk strategy with me. We know of our plan for Katia. Have you discovered whether any Masters will be at The Highland Hunt?”

I rocked forward, sitting up straighter.

I was the lucky one. Penelope was every bit the queen.

“Anthony Reynolds, The Marquess of Summerlyn.”

“Oh.” Surprise lit her tone. “I know of Lord Summerlyn. I don’t know him, personally, but I do know of him. Didn’t he⁠—.”

“Request to buy you from me?” Jealousy had me throwing her a look. “He did.”

Her smile sparkled. “I’m sure he’s kicking himself for that. I’ll be sure to give him a hard time. This is good. He is trusted, yes?”