Betrayals of Spring (Forever Fae #2)(23)

Durin was angered by our information and informed us that he made no such gift, and the only way to destroy it is by the magical fires of the elves. It’s strange how items made by the dwarves can only be destroyed by the elves. We were also informed that the messenger he sent to deliver Meliantha’s arrows had recently gone missing. I think we can all assume his messenger had gone traitor. Finn’s golden band was secured and will be taken to the Elvish Kingdom by Aelfric to be destroyed.

Knowing the dark sorcerer is here and plotting to take Meliantha wasn’t settling well with anyone, especially me. I vowed to protect her with my life and I meant it when I announced it in the meeting. My parent’s vigilant expressions were clear; they understood my intentions. I met with them in private and told them of my feelings for Meliantha and about calling off the engagement to Breena. They offered to withdraw making the announcement at the ball. It’s like the weight of the world was lifted off my shoulders. Now all I have to do is break the news to Breena.

I walk over to one of the windows in my bedroom, and I glimpse two of my warriors standing guard outside the cottage doors. Being the leader of the Winter Army, I delegated more warriors to shadow Meliantha to make sure she’s safe at all times. Each warrior has been thoroughly searched to insure no magical objects were placed on them. I know I should trust my men, but this is Meliantha we’re guarding and I can’t afford to take any chances. I can’t have her taken away from me when I’m about to get her back…hopefully.

The time has now come for the ball to begin. I thought if I took my time, I would be able to escort Meliantha up to the palace. I stare out the window for another minute and decide it’s probably a better idea if I don’t wait on her. I know I’ll see her tonight.

I head down the stairs to my front door, and I saunter out into the frosty cold air. The minute I’m outside I am met with the whimpering sounds of a baby pup. I peer down to see Accalia pawing at Aki’s ears vying for her father’s attention while Larentia, her mother, watches in amusement. All three of them are a stunning breed of white wolves and are part of my pack. I have eight more of them, and I know they are somewhere around here causing mischief. I laugh at Accalia and reach down to pick her up. Her fur is fluffy and white reminding me of a giant ball of cotton.

“Hey, girl, I see you like irritating your father,” I say while hiding my smile behind her fur so Aki can’t see it. I scratch her head and she licks my hand. I whisper in her ear, “Don’t worry, most women find it amusing to pester the men.” I know Aki heard me and he lets out a loud huff in response. I set Accalia down so I can look into Aki’s eyes.

“I need to tell you something, Aki. Something bad is going on around here and I need you to keep your eyes vigilant and aware. I want you to guard Princess Meliantha any way you can and keep her safe,” I demand. Aki is a faithful and loyal wolf, and I know he would do anything I asked of him. The same goes for my other wolves, but Aki is the one I spend the most time with. He huffs again and I know that is his way of saying he’ll do as I ask.

“Thank you, Aki.” I walk down the front steps and I stroll my way to the palace. The air feels frostier than normal for some reason. I’m usually not affected by the coldness of our court, but chills reverberate through my body and I shudder. My senses go on hyper alert and I know this can only mean one thing. The dark sorcerer must be near and I have a sinking suspicion he’s going to use this night to play his sick and twisted game.

I grumble amongst the wind, “Bring it, you worthless bastard.”





I’m standing before the full-length mirror looking down at my ruby-colored evening gown. I have my tawny red hair hanging down in soft waves flowing down my bare back. It at least covers up some skin. The silky quality of my dress feels smooth and soft as I run my hands down the fabric. The shoes I’m wearing look amazing with it as well. Let’s just hope I don’t fall and break my neck walking in the snow in these shoes.

The gloves I’m wearing match the color of my dress. I usually don’t wear gloves with my evening gowns, but knowing I was going to be in the Winter Court I opted to wear them. They are long gloves stretching up to my elbows where only my upper arms and shoulders are left bare. I figured they might keep me somewhat warmer than if I went without.

“Mel, hurry up or we’re going to be late,” Finn yells from outside the bedroom door. My heart jumps and it feels like it’s in my throat from being startled unexpect-edly. Maybe my heart feels like that because I’m nervous, who knows?

I grab my bow and arrows from the floor and my black cloak that is splayed out across the bed. The cloak will cover my dress until one of the servants will no doubt take it from me. I wonder what Kalen is going to say when he sees me.

I stop at the bedroom door and I take a deep breath. Here I go, I say to myself. I open the door to step out into the hall and I peer around the corner. Finn has done what I asked and has worn his long, white-blond hair down. His black tuxedo is very elegant. He looks ethereal with his appearance, but also devilish wearing black. It’s not long before they all notice me staring at them from around the corner. I am met with three sets of bulging eyes the minute I step into view.

Finn snaps out of it first and gives me an enticing grin when he calls out, “Meliantha, you look amazing.” I can’t help but laugh, and I soak up the compliment by twirling around in my dress to give them the full view. Finn marches over to take my cloak and holds it open for me to slide into.