12. Everly
Everly
Chapter twelve
Everyone disperses quietly, and Maxon grabs my hand, leading me back toward the castle. I replay in my mind every detail of what just occurred. It all seems so surreal. How did he know I was there? He reached me in a matter of seconds, when he was completely focused on his duel.
Maxon's steps slow as he enters through one of the open double doors.
“Who let you out of your room?” he asks, the skin around his mouth tight, as we make our way down the main hall.
Snapping out of my stupor, I rip my arm free of his grip. “I thought you said I wasn’t a prisoner?”
Maxon turns to face me. “You're not. But you're not safe without an escort.”
I snort and cross my arms over my chest. “Sounds like a prisoner.”
Maxon stands in front of me, booted feet braced shoulder width apart and arms crossed, almost mirroring my stance.
“If you want to leave your room, that’s fine, but I have two hand-picked soldiers stationed outside your room for your safety and protection.”
My frown deepens. I don’t remember seeing anyone outside my room when Maxon stopped by earlier.
“How am I supposed to know that?” I snap.
Maxon appears no less dangerous than he did in the arena. It’s clear by the fierce burn of his violet eyes that he is not happy. I should be scared. But I’m not.Out of everyone, he’s the only person who makes me feel completely safe. Which is absurd.
“Where is Nix?”
With a shrug, I drop my arms, brushing past him to continue walking. I don't know the way back to my room, but I can't endure his stare any longer.
“I’m here!” Nix calls as she flies around the corner in front of me, leaving a shimmering trail of fairy dust behind her.
“Where have you been?” Maxon demands, pinning her with a fierce look.
“Zaria told me to go rest.”
Maxon throws his hands in the air as he stops beside me. “You were supposed to be watching her.”
“Well, I didn’t think she’d be stupid enough to leave the safety of her room after almost ending up in the dungeons only a few hours ago.”
“Well, you thought wrong!” Maxon snaps at her.
“Hey! I’m right here, you know!”
They both look at me in confusion.
“Yes, we know,” Maxon replies.
My eyes narrow, and I let out a huff of annoyance, making my way toward the stairs.
“You’re going the wrong way!” Maxon calls out when I go to turn left.
A low growl slips past my lips, and I spin going the other way. Wisely Maxon remains quiet as we climb the stairs in silence, but as we reach the top, two soldiers materialize in front of us, blocking our way. Shock and surprise are evident on their faces as they both look at me and then at Maxon.
“How–” one guard says in disbelief. His lavender eyes are wide as he stares at me. They have a pinkish tint to them, making them look like a blooming flower in spring. He runs a hand through his blonde hair, looking adorably confused.
The other guard's initial look of surprise quickly turns to one of displeasure, his eyes a shade darker and flashing with anger.
“How did you get out?” he glowered.
Maxon steps in front of me. “I will discuss this with you after I’ve spoken to Everly.” Maxon moves past them, and I quietly follow, mouthing sorry to both of them. The blonde guard gives me a small smile, but the other remains aloof as he watches me.
Maxon opens my door then waits for me and Nix to pass before stepping inside and shutting the door. As the silence stretches on, I finally turn to face Maxon, searching for any sign of what he’s thinking.
“So, care to explain how you were able to slip past the guards? Because I can assure you they are two of my best.” Maxon folds his arms over his chest and leans back against the door. Despite the room's enormity, his commanding presence makes it feel small. Dressed in his black breeches, boots, and black shirt, even with his cape and leather cuffs gone, he still looks fierce and deadly.
I pause for a moment, considering my options. Even though I wanted to lie, I knew they would eventually discover the truth. Without a word, I turn and walk over to the dresser, pressing the small button ingrained into the wood. The sound of the wall parting fills the chamber, and my hidden passage appears.
“What the fuck?!” Despite her small size, Nix's voice echoes through the room.
I bite my lip as I turn around, my fingers twisting in the tulle of my skirt. “I went through here.”
Maxon pushes off the door with a scowl, his footsteps heavy as he stalks over and brushes past me into the dimly lit passage.
Nix flies across the room and lands on the dresser. “I thought only the royal chambers had tunnels and escape passages.”
“They do,” Maxon rumbles, walking back into the room and pressing the button, sealing the door shut once again.
His eyes meet mine, and I feel a hitch in my chest. Why does he have to look at me like that? It makes it impossible for me to look away.
“Get whatever you need, you’re moving rooms.”
The rasp of his voice causes a wave of goosebumps to break out over my skin. “What? Why?”
Maxon stares at me with a strange expression, like he isn’t sure if I’m being serious or not. “If you can get out, it means others can get in.”
“You think someone would come through the passage for me?”
“I would rather not find out.” His chin dips, his lashes lowering, shielding his vibrant eyes.
I look away and stare out the doors to the balcony. Everything is so different here. I have no clue what I’m doing. What if someone knew about those passages and came in here? But why would they bother with me? I’m nobody. Ghostly fingers dance along my spine as I stand here, my mind racing with fear and uncertainty.
Maxon’s hand lands on my shoulder, making me jump. “Are you alright?”
Yes . . .
No . . .
I’m not sure.
My anxiety rises, and pressure bears down on my chest. What have I gone and gotten myself into?
“Hey? What’s wrong?” Maxon’s voice sounds concerned.
He steps closer. I instinctively take a step back, feeling a sudden rush of adrenaline. With him standing so close, my mind is completely scattered. Why do I feel like I’m not safe anywhere I go?
A nagging memory tugs at the back recesses of my mind. It’s so close, yet so far, hovering just beyond my grasp. I know it’s important, but I can’t focus on it. Frustration rises quickly at feeling so helpless. I am powerless to do anything about the situation I’ve found myself in.
Maxon walks over to the door and gestures to someone outside. The faint sound of footsteps grows louder as the guards make their way inside. They both glance around the room before coming to a stop in the center. The blonde guard gives me a small grin, and I feel the tension in my body ease. Though the other doesn’t acknowledge my presence, not even with a glance. His short and scruffy dark hair gives him a rugged appearance, as does the hint of regrowth on his face.
“Everly. This is Kian and Tristan. They are your bodyguards while you're here,” Maxon introduces the two fae.
My cheeks flush at Kian's playful wink, but Tristan remains stoic with the same glare from before. His purple eyes narrow on me.
Seriously, what’s he got to be pissy about? I'm the one trying to make sense of a world that is completely foreign to me. Until the queen has gotten what she wants, I am trapped here.
“We are moving Everly to my wing of the castle. I want you to scout ahead and pick a room, make sure it is clear.”
“Yes, Your Highness,” Kian says, bowing.
Tristan’s frown deepens. “Your wing? Are you sure about that?”
Maxon growls, stepping up to Tristan. “It is not your place to argue. Everly is under my protection.”
“Of course, Your Highness,” Tristan mutters.
“Be discreet,” he orders, then he turns to Nix, who is still perched on the dresser next to me. “I want you to find Zaria and Raiden. Bring them here. Once we are all together, we will move Everly. Kian, once a room has been secured, come back and inform me. Tristan, stay put and guard the room until we arrive. Understood?”
In unison, everyone murmurs their agreements. Kian and Tristan turn on their heels and briskly walk out of the room. Nix swiftly launches into the air, gliding toward the window, but suddenly comes to a stop.
“Should I tell them what’s going on?”
Maxon shakes his head. “Wait until they get here. I don’t want anyone overhearing.”
With a sharp nod, she is gone.
“Do you really think I’m in danger?” I ask, walking over and resting my hands on the back of the chair.
Maxon wanders over to the balcony doors, with his hands casually tucked in his pockets. His back is to me as he gazes out over the gardens below. The gentle breeze makes the sheer curtains dance around him, softening his dark figure.
“I don’t know, but I won’t take the risk.” His voice is barely above a whisper, but I hear it as if he were right next to me.
My heart pounds against my ribcage, its rhythmic thumping echoing in my ears as I move around the chair. Maxon must feel my presence closing in, because he pivots to meet me, his face a mask of indifference. The glint of the silver ring encircling his captivating violet eyes catches the light, ensnaring me.
I stop a few feet from him, my hands twisting together. “You don’t know me. Why do you care what happens to me?”
Maxon tilts his head to the side like a confused puppy. “You feel it, don’t you? The calm that takes over when we are near?”
I drop my eyes to the floor to hide the truth in my face. I do feel that, but I also feel my pulse race and butterflies swarm my stomach. And the way the world falls away when our eyes lock, like a moment frozen in time.
Maxon steps closer, his finger going under my chin, tipping my head back. “You do feel it, don’t you?”
My eyes search his, and I open my mouth to answer, his gaze dropping to my lips. The way his eyes flare sends a scorching swell of hot fire through my veins, and I suddenly wish he would kiss me.
Unable to form the word, I take a small step back, needing some space. My eyes slowly roam over his face and I tilt my head, studying the vine-like tattoos on his face.
“Why the tattoos?” I ask, curiosity getting the better of me. I need to change the subject.
Maxon contemplates the question, his attention unwavering.
“They aren’t tattoos. When I was young, I had recurring dreams of this mysterious pattern, as if it held some deep significance. I later drew it, and over time, it appeared on my face. I adorn my chambers with the same markings. I later learned that the patterns etched into the surface were actually a powerful protection rune. Beyond its surface meaning, the symbol also serves as a symbol of my mating.”
That piece of information is so unexpected that it makes my eyebrows lift. Maxon smirks, sending a rush of butterflies swirling in my stomach.
“After the markings had formed completely, an oracle informed me that it was one half of my mate mark, and that when I find my mate and we link souls, she too will have the other half of the tattoo appear on her face to match mine.”
“What do you mean, mate? Like I think I know with what I’ve read in romance books, but–”
My words are abruptly cut off, silenced by the intensity of Maxon’s presence as he takes a step closer, his eyes piercing mine, burning with a fiery energy. The air crackles with tension, the silence amplifying the weight of his stare.
“Mate is our other half, the missing piece of the puzzle we must find. It's not predetermined or fate, simply souls being reunited.”
“How do you reunite the souls?” I whisper hoarsely, trying to ignore the way my pulse is racing.
Maxon’s lips turn up and he smirks down at me. “It happens over time. Mating is a dance of souls, where the gentle movement of bodies intertwining, echoes with the sweet symphony of two hearts beating in unison. In this sacred union, the sensation of becoming one, transcends the physical as their souls merge and intertwine, creating an ethereal bond that is beyond words.”
“Oh,” I whisper, trying my best to ignore the rush of warmth that spreads through me and settles in my lower stomach. So much for changing the subject.
My throat tightens as I swallow, and Maxon's attention is drawn to the balcony where the curtains sway. His pointed ears immediately catch my attention, adorned with multiple piercings that glimmer in the light, I’m tempted to reach out and touch them. Then, as if in a daze, I reach up and run the tip of my finger over the top of Maxon’s ear. His head snaps to me, making me jump in surprise, and I go to lower my hand, but he clasps my wrist tightly.
“We have very sensitive ears,” he growls, sending a shiver down my spine, but not in fear. I feel a fluttering sensation in the pit of my stomach, causing my thighs to involuntarily tense up. I quickly swallow, my tongue gliding over my lips. Maxon’s intense gaze fixates on my mouth, and a deep, rumbling growl escapes from the depths of his throat.
The sudden sound of a sharp rap on the wooden door causes my heart to race and my body to jolt with surprise. Maxon loosens his grip on my wrist, allowing me to swiftly pivot and hasten toward a nearby chair. The presence of Maxon in my life is a perilous mix, a constant threat to both my emotional well-being and physical health.
“Enter,” Maxon calls, his voice sounding gruff.
Zaria and Raiden step into the room, followed by Nix. Zaria takes me in and then fixes her gaze on Maxon with a sharp intensity.
“What did you do?” she accuses.
“Me?”
“Yes, look at her,” Zaria replies, her arm flying in my direction.
I frown at her, but my expression softens as Nix lands on my skirt, her weight barely noticeable as she looks up at me with her large, sapphire eyes. “She does look a little flush.”
“That’s enough.” I stand, making Nix take flight. “I’m perfectly fine, thank you.”
Raiden's massive arms are crossed, and his eyes shift from Maxon to me. I don’t like the way he looks at me, his silver eyes taking in every detail.
“So, we have a breach?” he asks slowly.
"Yes," Maxon says as he walks over to us, and I make a conscious effort to avoid meeting his gaze. “There is a passage that leads to the garden.”
“Zaria, who told you to use this room?”
Zaria’s eyes widen on Maxon. “The duke, he told me to put the guest in here on Nolan’s orders.”
“How did the duke know I had someone with me?”
Silence falls around the group, my gaze bouncing between them.
“Who’s the duke?” I ask.
“Only a pompous ass who thinks his farts don’t stink,” Nix says.
At the sound of Raiden's snort of agreement, Zaria spins around sharply to address them. “Hush, you two.”
Maxon runs a hand over his hair, the strands falling back haphazardly over his face. “The duke is . . . ”
“A pompous ass, like I said.”
“Nix,” Maxon growls, shooting her a look.
“What? I’m just saying what we are all thinking,” she complains, pouting like a child.
“The duke is not someone you want to mess with,” Maxon says cryptically. “The fact he knew I was bringing you here is concerning.”
“We are moving her, then?” Raiden asks.
“Yes, I’ve sent Tristan and Kian to clear a room in my wing.”
Raiden steps forward, but Maxon's raised hand stops him from arguing. “No one will know she is there, but I cannot leave her here. This is a matter of safety. I don’t know if anyone else is aware of this passage, but I’m not taking that chance.”
A shiver creeps across my shoulders, and I feel Raiden’s glare zero in on me. I keep my mouth shut. Nothing I say will do me any favors.
“Why her?” Raiden asks, jutting his chin my way. It’s clear by his dismissive tone he thinks I am nothing more than an annoying bug that has landed on their windshield.
“Raiden!” Zaria hisses.
But Raiden continues, “She shows up acting like she knows nothing, which is impossible, given she is here. She is trying to stay close to you, moving her closer is a bad idea.” He shakes his head.
The air around me becomes charged with tension, causing me to stand up. Maxon’s energy shifts, becoming more foreboding. I automatically place myself between Raiden and Maxon. My attention is fully focused on Maxon as he stops short. His dark brows lower as he stares down at me. I notice the tightness in his shoulders and the sharpness of his gaze. Raiden thinks I am a threat to Maxon’s safety, and I don’t know how to convince him otherwise. Without thought, I reach my hand out and grab his, letting my thumb stroke over his knuckles. With a brief pause, Maxon blinks twice before letting out a deep sigh.
“Why? Because she is innocent and a human, and the fae world is ruthless.” eyes drop to mine briefly, and the look in them seems distant. I don’t like it. “And even if she wanted to, she couldn’t hurt me.” Maxon says, looking over my head at Raiden and dropping my hand.
I do my best not to wince. I don’t know why, but those words sting a little. Or maybe not the words, but the tone. Mia always playfully teased me about my tendency to openly express my emotions. But it couldn't be helped. When it comes to my feelings, I'm an open book.
Zaria must sense my discomfort because she links her arm in mine, drawing me away from Maxon toward the door. “I will take Everly for a walk, and you guys can figure out the rest. Send Nix when you’ve sorted out a room.”
Before anyone can protest, Zaria has already led me out into the hallway. As soon as the door closes, I feel my muscles relax.
“You okay?” she asks softly as we make our way down the hall.
A strange lump forms in my throat, making it impossible to speak, so I just nod.