Knightqueen - Page 93

“And I’ll shout my love for you from the rooftops, for everyone to hear. You are the right man for me. And for Oron. Look around.”

She watched him as he scanned the room. Everyone was smiling at them.

His hands clenched on her hips.

“Be mine,” she murmured.

“I am. I always will be.”

She swallowed. “Be my king?”

He cupped her cheeks. “As my queen commands.”

One week later

Sten looked in the mirror and fiddled with his suit. He tugged at the neckline of his doublet. He hated wearing formal gear.

And he hated balls.

This one would be even worse because he’d be the focus of everyone’s attention. It was being held to celebrate his and Carys’ betrothal.

Gul, soon he’d become the King of Oron.

The thought left him a little queasy.

But it also meant that Carys would be his wife. The queasiness eased. It would be worth it. He’d walk through fire, and across alien planets, and battle the Gek’Dragar a thousand times to be with her.

Surprisingly, his knightguards had all been thrilled at the news that he was becoming the knightking. They’d even thrown him an impromptu celebration.

He realized now he had their respect and loyalty. Both Ashtin and Kaden had told him that there was no one else who’d make a better king for the Oronis. Because he’d always put the people first.

And he’d always put their knightqueen first.

He left his quarters and strode down the hall, his boots thudding on the marble floor. As he passed people, they bowed their heads to him.

Okay, that would take a little getting used to. He tried not to scowl.

He reached the Grand Hall.

The hall had black stone walls that shone in the light, and were shot through with veins of white and gold. The high ceiling soared overhead. It was covered in an elaborate web that was laden with white vines covered in gold flowers.

The hall was already filled with guests. Thankfully, he spotted Ashtin and Kaden. Both men were wearing similar outfits to his.

They both exaggeratedly bowed their heads at him.

“Your Highness,” Kaden drawled.

“Knock it off,” Sten growled.

His friends grinned at him. He knew they were teasing, but he still didn’t like it. And it was going to take a really long time to get used to anyone calling him Your Highness.

“Is Carys here yet?” He scanned the hall but didn’t see any sign of her.

“Not yet,” Ashtin said.

“Relax,” Kaden said. “You look tense when you should be happy. You’re marrying a beautiful queen, and you’ll soon be king of a prosperous planet.”

Sten grunted. “All I want is Carys.”