135 : Cut Ties With Her

ELIJAH

I huff. “My social and romantic calender isn’t any of the King’s concern, General,” I reply.

A cruel smile twists the corner of Cyrus’s lips, the amusement in his eyes devoid of warmth. "Oh, it most certainly is,” he purrs, his voice sending a shiver down my spine despite the heat simmering beneath my veins. "The King needs to know who his precious pet plays with, what secrets he keeps. After all, a disobedient pet needs a firm hand, wouldn't you agree?"

His words make my jaw clench. A sense of unease ripples through me. “What are you insinuating?”

His gaze sharpens, the amber light from the window turning his eyes into molten gold. He leans forward and his face is half-shrouded in shadow. "We've heard rumors," he says, his voice being low and measured. "of an alliance you've been forging. An alliance with… Verena Valentino. Done without the permission of the king.” He states, emphasizing the last words.

My eyes narrow, meeting his gaze with a challenge. “Alliance,” I rep