Nicholas’s POV
I couldn’t leave the office.
Couldn't move.
Liora was out there somewhere in the palace, probably crying, probably hating me, and I had no idea what the hell I was going to say to her.
“Sorry, love, my wife just dry-humped me on the desk in front of you and now she wants you gone by sunrise or she’s calling the council”?
Yeah. That would go over beautifully.
I stayed hidden.
Pacing again.
Back and forth.
I didn’t even know what I was going to do with myself.
The door creaked open behind me.
I didn’t turn.
I already knew who it was.
Marco stepped inside—quiet, careful, the way he always moved when he sensed I was one wrong word away from ripping someone’s throat out.
He didn’t speak at first.
Just closed the door. Leaned his back against it. Folded his arms.
