23. Hypocrites in a Hornet’s Nest
O n the following Friday morning, Adrian sat through an Assembly. With spring in full force, the people wanted a public garden. A petition had been taken. Not only did many of the citizens want more green space, but Lady Julianna Clearwater was leading the force and had many noble families in agreement, their signatures proudly gracing her document.
“Where do you propose we put this new garden?” King Florian asked the Assembly as he glanced over the petition.
“There was a fire a few months ago,” Lady Julianna explained. She stood next to her father, who was still seated like everyone else in the round room. “The baker didn’t have the funds to rebuild so he sold it. Father”—she looked down at him with a smile—“has purchased it.” She looked back up at the King. “It is in the perfect location in the heart of the city, where everyone can access it. The greenery will brighten the entire merchant district. ”
“So, this will be your garden?” the King asked. “Or are you donating the property to the city?”
“We will donate it to the city if His Majesty approves of my daughter’s endeavor,” Duke Clearwater replied.
The King nodded. “Good. Who will oversee cultivation and care? What will you plant?”
“Roses,” Adrian suggested, causing everyone to look at him. “Everyone enjoys roses, do they not? They are easy to care for and grow well. They are your favorite, are they not, Mother?” He looked around his father, beside him at the head of the room, to the Queen. Next to her was Dimitri’s throne, empty this morning.
“Indeed, they are, Adrian,” the Queen replied with a smile. “I think that is a lovely idea.” Taking the petition from King Florian, her eyes searched the document. “This states that there is funding in the Public Works. We will have to double-check that to ensure this project can work.”
“Surely we can support a public garden, Mother,” Adrian said. “It appears the entirety of the city desires one.” He looked around the room, taking in all the nodding heads, including Lady Julianna.
“I did not think you liked being out of doors very much, Adrian,” the Queen teased with a small smile.
“I do not, generally, but it has come to my attention recently that greenery and access to nice outdoor spaces improves mood, energy levels, and morale.”
“How very interesting. Well then, I say we check the budget. We can amend the monetary flows of the Public Works as necessary for upkeep and payment of gardeners.” Looking back to Lady Clearwater she said, “Unless the petitioners have a different plan? Upkeep isn’t clearly stated in your document. ”
Lady Julianna stood again. “When I checked at the Public Works office, it was my understanding that a gardener could well be afforded.”
“Very well,” the King said. “Since the Public Works is funded through taxes, I see no reason why this won’t work. As our dear Queen said, we will look over the accounting and make adjustments as necessary. Any shortage during initial construction will be covered by the palace.” He looked to Adrian, not needing to note that those funds would come from his pocket, and then he motioned one of the secretaries forward to take the petition. “We will keep the Assembly abreast of progress in the upcoming months, though any interested party can always check the site. Young Lady Clearwater, since you have headed this project thus far, I assume you are interested in remaining in charge of decision-making?”
“Yes, Your Majesty,” she answered, doing a short curtsy. “It would be an honor and a delight if it pleases the Royal Family for me to do so.”
“Good.” The King nodded at her answer, making her beam. “Then we will be in contact. Now, is there anything else before we adjourn on this late morning?”
No one said anything, as it had been a full meeting discussing the progress on the road repairs, a plant disease causing a price increase on dyes, which was, in turn, causing clothing prices to rise, as well as this discussion on the new public garden.
The King ended the Assembly and stood to talk with those who hailed him, as there were always several nobles that remained after most of the commoners left. Though Adrian wanted nothing more than to leave and discuss things with his father as they always did after meetings, he found himself stopped by his mother.
“I am happy you are supporting the young Lady Clearwater’s endeavor.”
“Surely, I have explained my reasons, Mother. Anything to please our subjects, yes? ”
The Queen chuckled softly. “Is it really a coincidence that you talked at length on this exact topic so recently at our dinner and now choose to publicly stand up for her? And a day away from my spring ball no less?” Smiling, she patted his arm. “It is good that you are championing her, especially after the debacle of last week.”
Word had spread inside the palace, as it always did, of the merry card games and drinking he’d shared with Silas and Andrew. Such things were not normally done inside the palace, but Adrian judged any consequences would be worth it. Not only did it serve to publicly diminish his attachment to Rose, it also showed he could let his hair down every once in a while instead of always remaining the hard ass.
His friends were too drunk to notice he didn’t partake in the sex acts or biting that had the ladies in thrall. Silas was a wild one, having two at once, while Andrew remained tamer.
Another tame one was Lady Julianna, whom both he and his mother noticed approaching. At the recent dinner their families had shared, he’d been bored almost to tears. The talk of gardens had been of use this morning, and his time with her, especially their nighttime walk out of doors, showed his favor.
Always in the back of his mind, however, were the soothsayer’s words. Your mate will be your ruin . . . He didn’t believe such things—fate, destiny, prophecy—but dread filled his gut at the thought of failing, nonetheless.
Was the sweet Lady Julianna his mate as he was beginning to think? Would she ruin him in marriage? Would she be barren and so cause the crown to pass to his human brother? Or would she learn of Rose and act out publicly?
All the possibilities spun in his head, making it pound .
Somehow it always came back to Rose. Rose whom he couldn’t get enough of. Rose whom he couldn’t fathom ever giving up. Rose who invigorated him in the best of ways.
Even when she was displeasing him.
Though he’d called for her several times over the last few days, he’d not seen her since he’d had her in his bedroom. Her willfulness and the thrill of the chase excited him like no other.
But it also frustrated him because he wanted to fuck her so damn badly his cock ached.
What she’d given wasn’t nearly enough to satisfy.
Lady Julianna neared, and before she was too close, his mother whispered so none but Adrian could hear, “Despite certain thorns among the roses, I expect tomorrow night to be another success.”
When Adrian’s eyes narrowed slightly, she smiled again, coldly. “Sometimes the pretty flowers overgrow and pruning is in order.” She walked away with perfect timing.
“Your Highness.”
Still watching his mother leave, Adrian took a mental deep breath, relaxed his shoulders and expression, and turned to Lady Julianna in her deep curtsy. Giving her his best fake smile, he dipped his head as she rose, which made her smile in return.
“Good morning, Lady Clearwater.”
“Good morning. That was a very exciting Assembly! Thank you so very much for supporting my endeavor. You know how I adore being outside.”
“Indeed. Many share your view, or you would not have so many impressive signatures on your petition. I believe it will enhance the city, as you stated, and bring pleasure not only to you but also to our people.”
She beamed. “I cannot wait for things to begin! I so look forward to watching the progress with you.”
“I will try my best to visit the site.”
“I understand you are busy. It would mean much for you to take the time. Perhaps the boost to mood and morale would make you more productive.”
Adrian smiled with a hint of teeth. “My morale and mood are always perfect.”
“Of course they are, Your Highness,” Lady Julianna flirted back, her soft brown eyes full of light. “Your idea for roses was a grand one.”
Her smile took on a new meaning, and he wondered if she’d mentioned at any point those being her favorite. He couldn’t recall.
But if he was going to publicly court her, likely in the summer, he needed to learn that sort of thing.
“I’ve heard Queen Eileen’s rose garden is extravagantly beautiful. Do you think we could cultivate this garden from that one?”
“That is a question for her,” he answered. His father had left the crowd of his supporters, and the attendants had thinned considerably, so he took it as time for him to leave. “If you will excuse me, I have a meeting with my father.” He bowed slightly while she curtsied again. “I will see you at tomorrow’s ball. Perhaps you could ask about cultivating my mother’s roses then. Since you head this project, I will leave it to you.”
That radiant smile lit her face again. She was quite beautiful, all smooth skin and big brown eyes, and such a gentle lady. She deserved better than his games. She’d make a good princess, though, and surely any pain he caused would be overshadowed by being a royal, not to mention the future Queen.
His mother’s dissatisfaction with her station tainted his thoughts because he’d be doing the same to Julianna.
But alas, such was the life of a royal.
Duty came first, feelings last.
“You will save me a dance, Your Highness? ”
“Of course,” he replied smoothly. “Until then.” He inclined his head again before turning to walk away. Unhurried, he made his way out of the Assembly Hall. As soon as he turned the corner, he moved briskly to his father’s office, pleased when staff stepped out of his way.
Once inside, Adrian shut the door with more force than necessary, causing his father to raise a brow from where he sat in one of the deep-cushioned chairs where they liked to discuss. Adrian ignored him, moving to the liquor cabinet. Pulling out their favorite cognac and a crystal glass, he poured a generous amount and tossed it back, enjoying the burn.
“Pour me one, too, would you, Adrian?”
Taking out another glass, he filled both halfway, and then moved to sit in his chair, handing his father his glass. They both sipped, Adrian silently seething while his father calmly waited.
“The young Lady Clearwater seems pleased with your support of her garden,” the King eventually said.
“Yes.” Adrian tossed back the rest of his drink.
“This is to plan so why are you unhappy?”
Adrian waved a hand, clearing away the words. “I am not unhappy with Lady Julianna. It is Mother.”
“Oh?” His father straightened in his chair.
“She has resorted to threatening my Rose.”
His father snorted. “Is that her name? Most simply call her your pet.” Staring contemplatively into his drink, he gave it a swirl and took a savory sip. “You know your mother is almost as aware of things as I.”
Adrian sighed. “Yes.” When his father opened his mouth—to lecture, Adrian was sure—he held up a hand. “I know you disagree, but I’m doing all I can. ”
“Your favoritism has been apparent and widely discussed since you brought your Rose home. Freeing her . . . and killing those traders . . .” The King shook his head. “Rash and foolish, my boy.”
“It was necessary,” Adrian argued, moving to pour himself more cognac. “They were inept and infuriating and deserved it.” He tossed back another shot. “You’d have done the same in my position.”
“Be that as it may, you have a reputation to uphold.”
“That served it.” Adrian leaned against the liquor cabinet. “It is all conjecture since I was not explicitly seen, but it still sends the message that I will not be trifled with and anyone who harms what’s mine will get the same.”
“Including your mother?” His father arched an eyebrow.
“I love Mother, Father, but if she attempts to harm even a hair—”
“She’s just peeved she doesn’t have as much control over you as she thought or wishes to have. I will handle her.”
“It is not for you to handle. Rose is mine. As such, I should be the one to protect her. I have Timothy assigned.”
“Do you?” Florian’s brows met his hairline in surprise.
Adrian gave a short nod. “She mistrusts, but I am slowly turning her to me.”
“You wish to keep her?”
“That is part of why I freed her, Father. She will be my mistress.”
“Ah.” The King nodded. “I see. To hold such status, she cannot be shackled. Most of us thought her a whim you’d outgrow.” When Adrian shook his head, he went on, “If that is the case, son, get her out of the palace. That would solve all your problems with your mother.”
Adrian shook his head. “She is not ready.”
His father studied him. “Even still, do you honestly think you can handle Eileen? Can your guard, able as they are, take on Luc?”
“Luc.” Adrian scoffed. He knew his mother’s butler, or more accurately, knew of him. Efficient was what Javier said, quiet but observant, and loyal to a fault. He’d worked for the palace for thirteen years and his mother personally for eleven.
Though it was kept quiet, and his mother pretended otherwise when it suited her, for many of those eleven years they’d been fucking.
“Mother is more of a hypocrite than I ever imagined.”
“Quite. It is well that you finally realize this, my boy. It is the way of the female species, to play games and lie through their teeth while trying to lead us around by our dicks.” Finished his cognac, the King set his glass on the table with a snap. “You should realize that if you elevate your flower as you hope to, she will likely develop the same tendencies, if she has not already.”
Adrian wanted to deny that Rose did such things, but she was a bigger tease than most. He didn’t think she lied to him; in fact, she was usually brutally honest, but she did have him by the balls and was not afraid to squeeze.
“Ah.” Florian chuckled. “It is good that your eyes are opened. Just be careful of your heart. It is okay to love, but do not let it give her too much power over you.”
“Love? I do not love her. It is simple enjoyment.”
“Of course it is. That is why your best guard protects her.”
“She excites me like no other, and the pleasure when we are together is . . .” Explosive seemed very cliché, and that was the last thing he wanted to be with his father. “I care for her, certainly, but it has not progressed to love.”
“Be careful if it does.”
Resentment began to fester. “And what of your mistresses?”
The King crossed an ankle over his knee. “Colette holds my heart, for certain, but she is more than happy with our arrangement. She knows her place and appreciates my care. Your Rose, on the other hand, is not content. She should be, considering where she comes from, which shows her possible volatility.”
Adrian looked away. He wanted to argue that Rose was not volatile, but she had that potential.
“I like that you are taking this talk seriously. Not every female is mistress material, and you need to think with more than your wick.” He paused. “At any rate, I will speak with your mother, put her back in her place, and let her know that if she steps out of line in any way, I will retaliate.”
“Timothy will not hold back if anything is attempted.”
“Surely not,” his father agreed, looking proud, “but the King has more clout, my boy.” He grinned. “And it is time your mother knew I am not going to tolerate her influence in matters that do not concern her. You are doing brilliantly this season, which has been her main focus. She needs to back off.” There was a moment of quiet before the King went on, “Now, let’s move on. Do you have anything you wish to discuss concerning the Assembly?”
Adrian shook his head.
“Good. Nor do I. The situation with the wolves is steadily worsening. As with your trip to Lea Valley, I need you to go to Silvershade. Things have deteriorated too far to send another emissary. They killed the last.”
Adrian was not surprised by this news. Still, he frowned. “It is not a good time for me to leave Rose.”
“Adrian. Your flower will be protected here, you have my word. I need you there.”
“Send Dimitri. He can handle the mutts.” He refilled his glass again, not liking the itchiness he felt at the thought of being away from Rose.
“We have set a precedent by you handling the beasts. I will not back down on that by sending my lackadaisical human son. The entire kingdom knows his reputation. He would never be taken seriously. You are smarter in these matters, not to mention my heir. Get out there, set their asses on fire, put things right, and then come back.”
“Fine. But Rose comes with me.”
Ten tense seconds of silence passed. “You cannot be serious.”
“I will not leave her here under threat. With my shadow over her gone, people will grow bold.”
His father drummed his fingers on the arm of his chair. “It is a week’s journey to Silvershade Keep, a week’s journey back. With a female, you must stop at inns and such to sleep. Many, many people will see you, not to mention the mongrel dogs. By the time you return, the entire kingdom will know of her status. Your relationship will be open, your reputation tarnished, and your future chances hindered.”
“I will handle it,” Adrian replied confidently. When his father only cocked an eyebrow, he brainstormed out loud, “What if we avoid the public? Take lesser-known roads, avoid the inns—”
“You would have her sleep in the carriages?”
“She loves it outside. We can sleep under the sky.”
His father snorted. “I fear you are overestimating the female condition, my boy. They are delicate creatures.”
“Rose was a slave for the better part of her life. She slept in dungeons and cellars, endured beatings, whippings, and other cruelty—”
“And she has gotten used to your spoiling, I am sure.”
“I will make it work.”
His father shook his head. “It is a bad idea, Adrian. If nothing else, it shows just how much of a weakness she is for you, especially to the wolves we loathe. I do not like it.”
“She has been a weakness for me since the day Larkin demanded I rescue her. I will not be in my right mind if I leave her here, even with our combined protection. ”
“You are not in your right mind right now,” Florian muttered. “Not in love, my ass.”
Adrian’s temper flared, rare with his father. “The maids hate her, Dimitri has already accosted her once, Mother has threatened her, and I suspect orchestrated more.” He thought of the ruined dresses. “I will not leave her here alone.”
“Bloody Moon, what have you stirred up with this female?”
“A veritable hornet’s nest.” He folded his arms over his chest. “I won’t go without her, Father. Mistake or not, she’s coming with me, or I stay and you send my idiot brother.”
Florian drummed his fingers on his chair again. “Fine. Fine, fine, fine.” He waved a hand as if to brush their tiff away. “But I fear we will both come to regret this.”
“Then we will deal with it then.”