Just when I thought the humiliation quota for the evening had reached critical mass, the King turned to me with that calm, calculating expression that made grown Alphas fidget.
“So, Keya,” he said, voice warm but edged with curiosity. “How have you been? And how’s your mate? I don't see him around.”
Oh no.
Rhys went rigid. I laughed. A little too brightly. A little too fast.
“Oh! I’m good!” I said, trying hard not to squeak. “James is busy with some work. So, he can't come.”
The King raised one brow like he was watching a mildly interesting animal perform a trick.
The Queen leaned closer to her husband, murmuring something I couldn’t hear. The King grunted thoughtfully. I wanted to die. Again. Possibly for real this time.
He gave me a nod before walking inside with my brother, who w
