THE BLOOD ROYALS Book 2: Long Live The Queen!

Chapter Fourteen: A List

Saine Neane
Renée's POV
Xanth and I have been quiet. We are both thinking about him. My mind doesn't want to accept what could be possibly true, that he's dead. I know all I have shared with him is a night full of kisses and sweet nothings but that meant a lot to me and I can't imagine such warmth being dead. I just can't. There's nothing on the news about it. Xanth thinks that they are keeping a tight lid on things.

"If he's dead, they have to tell the kingdom, right? I mean it's a big deal." Xanth nodded but words didn't leave him. "If he's dead... I don't want that. I don't want him to be dead."

I fought a bout of tears.

"We aren't close but I don't want that either. Can I ask you something?"

"Yeah."

"Are you in love with him?"

I looked at the man asking me the question. He looks troubled.

"I don't know what to call it. I am not sure if it's-" I stared at the ringing phone next to me. Is it hotel staff checking why no buffet has been ordered this morning? Are they kicking me out because the prince is dead? "Hello?"

"Hi." My heart jumped into my throat. "It's me."

I screamed like a little girl. I screamed so loudly Xanth sprang to his feet to check on me. "It's Reli! It's him! Listen! Say something!"

"Reli?" Xanth asked.

From his smile, I was assured I'm not mad and hearing things.  Xanth stepped away and they spoke extensively. He only kept his responses to yes, no, aha and yeah. I don't know what they are talking about but I'm desperate for my turn with that phone.

When he finally gave it back I ran to the bathroom and closed the door. "Are you okay?"

"I think so... Yeah. Please don't scream. I have a splitting headache."

"I won't. Where are you? Can I come over? I think I'll feel better if I see you."

"I'll come to you later tonight. Rain check, remember? I just wanted to hear your voice, I'm not even sure why but... Are you okay?"

"Now I am." I wiped the tears at the corner of my eyes and slid down the door to sit on the floor. "I was so worried. I was scared. You don't know how relieved I am to hear your voice."

"I couldn't wait to hear you voice too. I can't wait to see you. Take care."

"Be careful. I'll see you soon."

He hanged up.

I cried quietly in the bathroom not because I'm sad but because I'm relieved nothing bad happened to him. He's coming back. I don't think my heart will rest until I see him. Until I get to touch him and cage him in my arms, my heart won't rest.

After a while I came out.

Xanth stared at me wide eyed. "I think I have my answer." He picked his jacket and left.

Saine Neane
Prince Relian's POV
Bowie insisted on air support on my way back to Saine Neane. I'm meeting my father and there's much to discuss. Griffin Hugh has been transported to the base for interrogation. My father wants to be here for it. 

I can't help but think of what Talbot said before his death. He said Hanniel is under. I recalled it late in the evening when I was leaving Cray Thera and it's still on my mind. What does that mean?

"General, welcome back." A soldier shook my hand as soon as I got off the plane. Several others stood at attention to salute me.

"Thank you. Where is the king?"