Nicholas’s POV
“I don’t know what the f**k you’re talking about.”
The words came out low, dangerous, every syllable edged with warning.
Dimitri didn’t back down an inch.
“Stop pretending,” he said, voice steady even though his eyes were burning. “Everyone knows you wanted Hazel out of the picture so you could live your happily-ever-after with your mistress.”
My hands clenched so hard I felt the bones grind.
“I am your king,” I said slowly, each word carved from ice, “and I will not tolerate any slander from you. I might not love Hazel—that doesn’t mean I want her dead.”
Dimitri’s laugh was short and bitter.
“Then explain where you were going that night, Nicholas.”
Something inside me snapped.
I lunged.
My hand shot out, fingers wrapping around his throat. I slammed him back agai
