The Guardian King

Chapter Fourteen

~ Ember

*

I laid awake in the middle of the king-sized bed as morning light began to chase away the night. The few hours of sleep I’d managed to catch had been dreamless. For the first time in over three months, the guardian king hadn’t visited my subconscious. I couldn’t decide that brought me relief… or disappointment.

*

I’d wanted no part in playing the king’s companion… until he mentioned my training. He’d made a reasonable offer, otherwise nothing could’ve tempted me to accept. But trading merely my presence in his enormous and opulent palace in exchange for proper one-on-one training was an agreement I couldn’t refuse. Combat training alone held a great deal of appeal, due to my deep desperation to protect myself.

*

As I sat up in bed, I made the decision, from there on out, I’d only focus on that which was within my power to control. I’d give my all to training and wouldn’t dwell too much on being the pretend companion I never wanted to be. “Focus on the good and let the bad be,” my mom used to say.

*

I took my time in packing my bags, knowing what awaited downstairs. In only a week, Aunt Beth had filled the maternal void left by my mom’s passing. Her care meant a lot to me, but it meant she wouldn’t easily accept my agreement with the king. Gemma had briefly given her a rundown of the ball’s events when we returned late the night before, but I’d refused to discuss the matter until after I’d slept. I couldn’t avoid her any longer. I zipped the second of my two bags and left them at the foot of the bed for later retrieval.

*

Though I couldn’t yet control my empath ability, I sensed apprehension and doubt from the ground floor before I made it halfway down the stairs. “Trust me, Aunt Beth,” I heard Gemma say as I reached the kitchen doorway. “Ember’s going to be fine.” I stopped in my tracks to listen. “Fine? How can you say that?” Aunt Beth spat back, the worry unmistakable in her voice. Concern hit me in the chest, forcing me to take a step back.

*

“It’s hardly been a week since Ember’s learned she’s a guardian,” Aunt Beth continued. “She’s still figuring out how she feels about herself. She shouldn’t be coerced into a relationship just because the king has taken a likening to her. She’s too good, too innocent, to be subjected to court life. They will chew her up and spit her out.”

*

“If you are going to eavesdrop,” I jumped at Isaac’s low voice from right behind me, “might I suggest the dining room? You could hear better from in there.”

“I… I didn’t mean to. I just heard my name and…”

“Couldn’t help yourself? I can’t say I wouldn’t have done the same.” He gave me an understanding smile and continued, “But if you don’t go in, how do you expect to speak on your own behalf?” He gave me a pat on my shoulder and moved passed to enter the kitchen.

*

I followed Isaac. When Aunt Beth spotted me, she put on a halfhearted smile as if nothing was the matter. “Good morning. I thought you’d slipped out for a walk already.”

“No, I was packing.”

“About that, Ember, I wanted to talk-”

“I’ve already made up my mind, Aunt Beth.”

“Sweetheart, you don’t know what you are agreeing to.”

“Phoenix made his expectations clear. I only need to live in the castle in order to be his companion. I don’t have to give any more of myself than I wish, and in exchange he will oversee my training.”

“Being the royal companion is so much more than merely what the king expects of you. It’s what the entire guardian world expects of you. Trust me, it’s a huge responsibility on anyone’s shoulders, but especially for someone who’s so new to guardian life.

*

“In barely a week,” Aunt Beth continued, “you’ve gone from unknown to having the biggest and brightest spotlight thrust upon you. It’s the last thing your mom would have wanted.” Aunt Beth’s claim triggered my aggravation. “What my mom would’ve wanted is irrelevant,” I said. “She left this world without telling me the truth, and therefore, has no bearing on my choices in the guardian world.”

“You’re right,” she conceded. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have invoked your mother in order to make my case. I just want you to understand I have your best interests at heart.”

“I do understand, Aunt Beth, and I am immensely grateful. But one thing I’ve learned in my brief time as a guardian is how it feels to listen to my instincts for a change. I took a risk in coming here because my gut told me to. Now my gut’s telling me to accept the king’s offer.”

*

“Isaac?” Aunt Beth addressed her husband, hoping for support. “Don’t you have anything to say?” He took a drink of his coffee, taking two seconds to think, before answering, “Only that Ember can always come back here if ever she needs to.” Upon the realization her husband wasn’t going to back her up, Beth gave in. “Of course you can,” she muttered, wrapping me in a crushing hug. “Were always going to be here for you.”

*

When my aunt finally released me from her embrace, she brushed away a single tear. Fear struck me hard. “Aunt Beth, you’re suffocating Ember with your negative emotions,” Gemma said. Beth cleared her throat and replied. “Sorry. Here, let me make you some tea.”

“That would be great,” I said. Gemma came to my side and whispered, “She means well.” I let out a little laugh, causing her to ask, “What’s funny?”

“That is what Phyneas says about you,” I told her. She knocked her shoulder into mine and said, “Well, now you know where I get it from.”

“I never wondered.”

*

At the breakfast table, Aunt Beth placed a steaming brew in front of me. “Drink up, Phyneas will be here soon. I suppose you wouldn’t want to keep the king waiting.” I ignored the bitterness in her voice, unsure why I had the urge to come to his defense when my trust in him hardly exceeded hers. Gemma and Beth sat down with me and began chatting about court life.

*

When I’d drained the last drop of my tea, Gemma’s phone chimed. “Phyneas will be coming through the portal any minute,” she announced after checking the screen. As we stood from our chairs she asked, “Are you all packed.” I nodded.

“I’m going to miss you around here you know,” Aunt Beth said.

“I’ll come visit.”

“I’d really like that. I want to hear all about your life in the castle.” She turned to my cousin and said, “Promise me you’ll look out for her.”

“I promise.”

“I mean it, Gemma. Don’t let her be bullied by the court. And if she’s unhappy or if she becomes distressed in any way, I want you to bring her back here.”

*

“That won’t be necessary,” came a deep voice from the entrance to the kitchen. Phoenix, though dressed far more casually than I last saw him, still looked far too regal to be standing in Beth’s kitchen. “Your Majesty,” Aunt Beth bowed, “I meant no disrespect.”

“Forgive me for not announcing my arrival. It was a spur of the moment decision to come and collect my companion personally. I assure you, I’ll not give her cause to be unhappy and anyone who brings her any amount of distress will have to answer to me.”

*

Silence descended as none of us knew how to respond to the king’s intensity. His gaze fixed on me and activated a fear I thought I’d thoroughly buried. Though my heart detected no ill intent from him, it had proven to be a liability before. Past experience carried more sway with me than my heart and that would keep me safe in future. If Phoenix truly intended to earn my trust, the journey for him would not be easy. He already had a black mark in my eyes for failing to introduce himself as the king.

*

Phyneas and Isaac appeared behind Phoenix. Phyn sent me his usual friendly smile as he asked, “Ready to go, Emmie? Where’s your luggage?” I caught Phoenix reveal a slight scowl on his otherwise emotionally void face. I got the feeling he didn’t appreciate Phyn’s nickname for me as I did. “Upstairs on my bed,” I answered Phyneas.

“I’ll show you,” Isaac offered.

*

Phoenix looked from me to Aunt Beth and understood we needed a moment to say goodbye. “When you’re ready, Ember, I’ll be waiting out front.”

“I thought we were leaving by portal?”

“There’s been a slight change of plans. I’ll explain in the car.” He then looked to my aunt and said, “Beth, you have my word as king, Ember is in safe hands.” She could only summon a halfhearted smile as she replied, “Thank you, Your Majesty.” Once the king left the room, Aunt Beth wrapped me in another tight hug and into my ear whispered, “Do not lose your heart to him, Ember.”

*

When I turned to leave and Gemma made no move to follow, I asked, “Aren’t you coming?”

“No, I’m portaling back with Phyneas. You and Phoenix are going to Hargrove.”

“Where’s that?”

“It’s an estate on the outskirts of Ilia.”

“Why are we going there?”

“He’ll explain in the car.”

*

A ball of uncertainty formed in the pit of my stomach as I grabbed my purse and headed for the front door. Before I reached it, Phyneas stopped me. “You look as though you’re being lead to the gallows.”

“I don’t mean to. I’m grateful for the opportunity the king has offered me, I just resent the way this entire situation unfolded. I can’t shake the feeling he somehow tricked me into this.”

“Everything will work out the way it should. Trust me.”

“What is that, your mantra? Chant it enough times and it’ll magically happen?” His eyebrows raised in surprise and he sent me a smirk. I sighed and said, “I’m sorry, Phyn. I didn’t mean to snap.”

“I know. You’re right though. In order to trust others you must first learn to trust yourself.”

“That’s essentially what Phoenix told me last night.”

“And he’s right, as usual.”

“Are you his cheerleader or something?” With a sharp laugh he replied, “Among other things. Nic’s not only my king, he’s my best friend. I trust him with my life.”

“Do you trust him with mine?” Phyneas came closer, wrapped his long arms around me in a brotherly hug and replied, “Even more so.”

*

Phyneas’ encouragement effectively planted a kernel of hope in me and I breathed a little easier as I walked out the front door to join the king. Near the car, Phoenix stood beside a slightly shorter man with twice the muscle mass. Molded from dark chocolate and sporting a mass of tattoos, he wore dark framed sunglasses paired with a no-nonsense demeanor.

*

At my approach, Phoenix said, “Ember, I’d like you to meet an important member of the royal security team. This is Knox, my personal shield.” The man took off his sunglasses, revealing a narrow set of brown eyes. With a nod of respect he offered an unexpectedly gentle smile and said in a baritone voice, “I am honored to meet you, my lady.”

“Just Ember is fine,” I replied.

“As you wish.”

“Knox’s job is to be my shadow,” Phoenix explained, “but I will reassign him to your detail from time to time when the need arises.”

“Are you expecting it to?” He considered his answer before saying, “I cannot afford to make any assumptions where your safety is concerned.”

*

Knox reached for the backdoor of the sleek black car, but Phoenix got there first. Knox gave the king a slight bow and moved to the front passenger’s side. “After you, little dove,” Phoenix said as he opened the car door for me. I slid across the supple cream leather seats leaving plenty of room for the massive guardian king to enter. Once inside the car, Phoenix moved to the seat across from me and I heard the front door shut, signaling Knox was the last one inside. The car eased out of the driveway while the king and I entered into an awkward silence.

*

As the car rolled onto the main street, I took the opportunity to admire the plush interior. I’d never given much thought to what the inside of a king’s vehicle would look like, but if I had, the reality would have put my imagination to shame. The supple cream leather seats contoured perfectly to my frame. The dark-blue stitching gave the upholstery a luxurious aspect only increased by the royal crest sewn into each headrest. The car even smelled elegant; genuine leather and new carpet. But the biggest sign of wealth and superfluousness had to be the mini drink station, complete with a tiny fridge. Though my time as the king’s companion was temporary, I planned to enjoy every luxury that accompanied the role while it lasted.

*

After the third time I glanced in Phoenix’s direction and found his eyes locked on me, I couldn’t stay silent any longer. “You know, in human culture, it’s considered rude to stare.” His countenance did not waver as he confidently replied, “I’ve often found humans to be odd creatures. Why shouldn’t I appreciate such beauty when it’s sitting right in front of me? I believe it’d be more impolite to ignore your lovely presence.” I rolled my eyes at his sentiment, though it left a lasting impression.

*

“What else do humans consider discourteous?” Phoenix wanted to know. I didn’t hesitate to answer, “Picking someone up without telling them where they’re going.”

“Of course. Forgive my forgetfulness.”

“Gemma mentioned Hargrove.”

“That’s correct.”

“What brings us there?”

“My father’s home. He strongly… requested to meet my new companion.”

“What?” I replied in confusion.

“I’m taking you to meet my family,” he clarified.

“With no warning?”

“Why do you think we are driving? This is your warning.”

“King Phoenix-”

“To you I am, and will always be, simply Nic.”

“Phoenix… I am not prepared to meet the king’s family.”

“Why not?”

“Be-becuase they’re important.”

“So are you.”

*

Before I could stop him, not that I was certain I wanted to, he shifted to the seat beside me. He sat at an angle facing me as much as he could comfortably do so. A foreign energy simmered within the sliver of space between us. Phoenix nudged a few strands of hair out of my face, before taking my hand in his. “You are awfully bold in your familiarity with me,” I pointed out.

“You are my companion.”

“This level of closeness was not a part of our agreement.”

“You are mistaken.”

“No. You claimed all I needed to do was live within the palace. You said I only needed to play the part.”

“But I never said I wouldn’t peruse you.” My mouth fell open in surprise. “I like you,” he continued. “You only need say the word to take our relationship further… or keep me at bay. I’m hoping you chose the former.”

“Phoenix,” I summoned my inner strength in order to withdraw my hand from his, which he politely surrendered. “I have no desire to enter into a romantic relationship.” With a soft sigh, he said, “Pity.

*

Phoenix sat up straighter in his seat, creating more space between us, but did not return to the opposite side of the car. “You don’t plan to give up do you?” I guessed.

“Respectfully, no. I do not.”

“Listen, I’m sure you are a man whom few can say no to, but I assure you, you’re wasting your time with me.”

“I will be the judge of that. And besides… it’s my time to waste.”

“Don’t you have a hoard of girls at your beck and call?”

“Ha!” His sardonic laugh caught me off guard. “What?” I questioned. “Do you deny it?”

“I wonder when you will cease making assumptions about me based on the human kings you’ve no doubt grown up hearing stories about.”

“You mean to claim you don’t have a couple hundred notches on your royal bedpost?”

“That is an immensely personal question.”

“Your evasion is all the confirmation I need.”

“Guess you’ll have to get an invitation to see my bedpost, to know for certain.” A flush overcame my cheeks.

*

Phoenix slid a hand through his mess of wavy hair and I spotted a bit of ink on his wrist, prompting me to ask, “If you haven’t entertained your share of women, then who exactly is Lilly?” I pointed out the small tattoo on his inner wrist, roughly the size of a matchbox, consisting of a lily flower with the stem forming the name in cursive.

*

Phoenix chuckled at my question. “Who is she?” I asked again.

“Why? Are you jealous?”

“You wanted us to get to know each other. I’m curious as to why you have another woman’s name tattooed on you.”

“Woman would be a bit of a stretch.”

“Do you get off on being as vague as possible?”

“Only when it riles you up,” he admitted. I scoffed and he laughed deeply, before he said, “Relax, mon ange. You’ll meet Lilly soon enough.

*

The few instances I heard a foreign language pass the king’s lips, I took notice of his perfected accent. “Are you French?” I asked.

“I am. Why do you ask?”

“You keep referring to me as your angel in French and your accent seems too spot on to have been learned late in life.”

“You have a good ear. My father is of French descent, though he was born and raised in Ilia. In his young adult years he spent some time in France where he met my mother.”

“Is there anything I should know before I meet your parents?”

“You’ll only be meeting my dad today. And no, just be your charming self.”

*

The car turned into the drive of a quaint but elegant country estate. I enjoyed the view of the countryside through the window as I asked, “I thought you said I’d be meeting your family?”

“My parents are divorced. They go out of their way to avoid one another’s presence. For today, I just want you to meet my father, stepmother…” the car stopped in front of the house as he added with a smile, “and half-sister… Lilly.” He laughed at my dumbfounded expression when I realized my mistake. “Come along, Angel,” he said, opening the door. “Don’t want to keep my other woman waiting.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~