Chapter 28 Lennox
LENNOX
I wish I could have captured and framed the look on Lorenzo’s face when Luka and I arrived at the ceremony. I was delighted to see how much our presence pissed him off.
The rest of the court appeared happy to see us. The somber air lightened slightly as Luka and I came into view. The people were happy to see Luka had come for Arlo’s funeral, their relief was evident. You could hear it in their hushed whispers.
He’s back.
Luka came back.
I’m so glad he could make it.
Everything was going according to plan.
Lorenzo and Adreona didn’t wait for us before continuing into the temple. The shock of seeing the two of them together, arm in arm, had yet to wear off.
I should have known it ran deeper between them than a simple alliance. It made me question who instigated Arlo’s death. Lorenzo wanted the crown—always had. But who’s idea was it really? Who’s idea was it to murder Arlo—Adreona or Lorenzo?
Luka and I dismounted our horses, handing them off to one of the guards outside the temple, the female gave us a soft smile before disappearing with our steeds.
I looped my arm through Luka’s as we made our way toward the entrance of the temple, following behind the rest of the mourners.
Luka paused when we reached the threshold, his body going tense, his eyes wide as he stared at the wall filled with stained glass at the front of the temple.
“You can do this,” I whispered. “I’m right here.” I gave his forearm a squeeze.
He took a deep breath through his nose, his gaze still fixed on the other end of the temple as his feet began walking again.
The murmurs that started outside continued as we made our way to the front of the temple, taking a seat in the front row next to Adreona and Lorenzo.
I held Luka’s hand throughout the ceremony. I tried my best to listen, but my mind kept wandering.
What was Adreona getting out of being with Lorenzo? Did she think she’d be queen?
Which one of them had killed Arlo?
Were our friends finding any useful information?
What was going on in Luka’s head? Was his mind spinning like mine or was he too focused on how he was back in this temple again, mourning yet another family member’s death?
“At this time, we ask if any of the family would like to say anything about our beloved late king.” The priestess looked at the front row, where we all sat. She was dressed in all white—standing out in the masses of black.
Lorenzo covered his face and shook his head, appearing as if he was too distressed even to speak of his father.
If anyone dared to look closer, they’d see how terrible of an actor he was.
Luka squeezed my hand; we shared a look before he stood and approached the dais.
Lorenzo peeked out from under his hand, his eyes blazing with ire as he watched Luka ascend the steps. When he caught me watching, he schooled his expression back to that of a grief-stricken son, wiping at fake tears with the back of his arm.
Anyone who thought his grief was real was a fool.
“I would like to say a few words about my grandfather, our late king.” Luka swallowed.
“As many of you know, my parents were taken from me at a young age.” Luka’s hands fisted on the stand, his knuckles turning white.
It took all my restraint to not get up and stand by his side, to place my hand over his as he spoke.
But this was something he needed to do on his own.
“After my father’s death, my grandfather took me under his wing, he became a father figure to me after I lost my own, my mother was in no condition to be a mother then.
” Luka looked down at the stand. “My grandfather would be the first one to tell you he wasn’t a good enough father to his own children, he relied on my grandmother.
He frequently told me he had no idea what he was doing—raising a grief-stricken teenager.
But I had to give it to him, I think he did a pretty good job. ” He smiled slightly.
“He was there for me when I needed him. He supported me, cared about me, loved me—and helped me crawl out of the hole of grief from losing both of my parents in such a short period of time. It is because of him I met my wonderful wife and mate, Lennox Adair. He strongly supported our marriage.” His gaze slipped to mine for a second before returning to the crowd.
“I wish we had more time together. I am still trying to process his sudden death. I’m as shocked as you all; he was in perfect health. It makes no sense—it never will—death is tricky that way, but I grieve with you.”
Lorenzo stiffened, his back going straight in his seat.
“Lennox and I both grieve with you for our late king. I’m thankful I was able to make it here in time to mourn with you all, but also to celebrate his life and see him put to peace. Rest well, grandfather.”
Red crept up Lorenzo’s neck as Luka finished, but his face remained impassive, his eyes tracking Luka as he sat back at my side.
I leaned in and whispered in his ear, taking his hand back in mine. “He’d be proud of you.”
“Thank you.” He brought our joined hands to his lips, kissing the back of my hand before resting them on his thigh.
The priestess returned to the stand, continuing on with the ceremony.
When she reached the end, we all followed her out into the courtyard at the back of the palace.
Luka and I stood, hand in hand, as we watched the guards light the pyre.
Flames licked up the box encasing Arlo’s body, smoke billowed up into the air.
We watched in silence until nothing but smoldering ashes remained of the late Blood King.
“We’re so glad the two of you could make it.” Adreona’s arm was looped through Lorenzo’s. “It was such a pleasant surprise.” She smiled tightly.
“We wouldn’t have missed it,” My hand tightened on Luka’s arm. “It was a miracle we made it with such short notice.”
Lorenzo’s body stiffened.
“I do wish we could stay longer, but unfortunately, we have to get back to Alethens.” Adreona stiffened. “I have lots to catch up on after being gone for so long.”
“You’re not staying?” Lorenzo asked. It was typical in all the courts for there to be a celebration of life after a funeral. Sometimes it was a simple dinner; sometimes the celebration went on for days. We didn’t know what Lorenzo had planned for his father, but we had no intention of finding out.
“We don’t want to overstay our welcome,” Luka countered.
“Heads might roll if we do,” I added.
A muscle ticked in Lorenzo’s jaw, and Declan’s wings twitched behind him from where he stood beside me. He had joined us after the ceremony, sticking to the back of the temple during to keep a better eye on things and assess any potential threats.
Luka guided me with a hand on my back. “I’m sure we will see you two soon.”
He leaned in and whispered in my ear, “I need to get you out of here before you get us in trouble.”
I smirked. “Sorry if I was crass, but I couldn’t resist.”
“No need to apologize, you know I love your violent side, but we need to stick to the plan.”
I dipped my head. “You’re right, let’s get the fuck out of here.”