To Love a Prince (Knights of Valor Book 1)(88)

Or had been, he thought, as he wrapped his arms around his wife.

He would do whatever it took to keep her and their son safe. He hadn’t wanted love, but now that he had it, Eli would fight until his last breath to keep it.

Auburn snuggled close to him, and he wrapped a blanket around her to help ward off the cool evening air.

“Tamryn’s winters won’t agree with you.” King Garrett handed her a warming brick as he sat down opposite them.

Auburn smiled. “I’ll find a way to stay warm.”

Eli held her closer.

“Learn anything more about Fredrick or those conspiring with him?” The king lowered his voice even though it was only them and Leopold in the royal apartments.

“Amazing the detailed documents we found in Fredrick’s belongings.” Leopold shook his head. “If only all criminals were so organized.”

“Greed,” Auburn said. “He had to make sure no one was stealing from him as he would’ve stolen from them.”

King Garrett leaned back in the overstuffed chair and glanced at Leopold. “We’re sure he was the one behind the assassination attempts on Eli and Auburn?”

“Even got record of the funds he used to pay Premal.” Leopold shook his head. “Can’t prove it yet, but it looks like Fredrick paid the informant that led us to capturing the pirate ship. Wanted to make sure we’d have it to chase after Eli once he told you Eli was taking slaves.”

“I still can’t believe I listened to him about that. But he seemed so sure.”

“He was sure,” Leopold said. “But he only told you half the truth.”

“Have you found all of his accomplices?” Auburn asked.

Leopold shook his head. “Probably never will. All the more reason you gotta keep a sharp eye on your son. Rashalee got close to the Tamryn throne. Too close. She’ll try again, and we need to be ready.”

Eli tightened his arms around Auburn. He would do everything in his power to keep her and his son safe, and she’d be a formidable opponent if anyone threatened him or their child.

Gazing down at her, he’d found true happiness. He’d always remember that, cherish it, and let it guide his path. She deserved that, and so did Tamryn.



Leopold walked to the door, paused and turned back to King Garrett, Eli and Auburn. Father and son were both smiling. It was a step in the right direction, although it would take more time to heal the rift between them.

“Gonna have to step up security having this many royals in one room,” Leopold said. “It’s a good problem to have.”

Garrett smiled at his son and daughter-in-law. “Might even have to assign a few Knights into the rounds.”

Leopold nodded.

“I’ve spoken to Sligo about a bodyguard for Auburn and our son,” Eli said. “It’ll take time, but he agreed.”

A knock on the door made Leopold frown.

The guards showed Duke Calloway into the royal chambers.

The duke bowed, then straightened. Tall and broad-shouldered, age had softened his middle and grey flecked through his light hair, but his cornflower blue eyes were brilliant with unshed tears.

“Prince Eli said...” Calloway stopped, the words choking him.

Tears streamed down Auburn’s cheeks as she took a few tentative steps then ran to the duke. She wrapped her arms around him and hugged him.

Leopold smiled. The Dragon God had won this round.