Denzel’s POV
The king and I locked eyes, the air between us taut and unmoving. He studied me carefully, searching my gaze for hesitation, for submission. What he found instead made something dark flicker in his eyes.
Fabian already knew my answer wouldn’t please him. He had pushed for it anyway. And now, it was time to give him exactly what he’d asked for.
“As long as no one goes behind my back to attack the bears,” I said evenly, my voice calm but unyielding, “and as long as no one tries to stylishly manufacture a war, I will not bend to any demands for peace.” I paused, letting the weight of my next words settle. “But if this happens again if another incident occurs and they demand Jalisa, then I will give her up willingly to save lives.”
His jaw tightened.
“You might want King Dono
