"I want him dead." My teeth clicked together as I seethed.
"Patience, My Lady. First, we need to secure your position in court, so that when we finally serve justice- you will be the one power is handed to."
Zev's grip around the hilt of his sword loosened. He turned to face me. The sun cast a shadow on half of his face, creating the illusion of a darker tan. It contrasted his light eyes. They were gleaming. I tried to ignore it. Those eyes reminded me too much of my dead son's. I pulled the hem of my shawl closer around my face, nervous about being spotted in the gardens.
The last thing I wanted was for a guard or attendant to get the word to the King that I had finally left my chambers. It was too risky to face him now. I did not trust what I would do when I saw him again, now that I had learned the truth of his sins.
"I don't want power." I finally spoke again. "I want revenge."
Anger growled in my empty womb. It threatened to consume me. The anger hurt less than the grief I had wallowed in since the loss of my newborn son- so I willed it to take over me.
"If we act hastily, you will lose your life right along with him. The kingdom will fall into civil war as brother battles brother for the throne. David's pointless wars will continue on with his offspring. I've seen you Bathsheba. You have a caring heart and could truly be a voice for the people. You are not greedy for power. That is why you are the best person in this court to wield it. Your grandfather's legacy makes you a trusted political figure in the people's eyes as well."
I turned the corner, rounding another blossoming bush of pink and red flowers. Zev followed a careful distance behind me. My pace was steady. I was careful not to push myself too far, fearful of the pain it could cause.
"What is it you want in return?"
"You." He said it so bold, no hesitation. It stopped me in my tracks. At least he was honest with his intentions, unlike the King.
I gulped. The burning rage broiling inside me simmered and a slow, soothing burn replaced it. I glanced at him from over my shoulder- hiding like a coward behind my shawl.
"Me?"
He nodded his head and took a gallant step forward.
"Do not mistake my words, My Lady. I am your loyal servant. I will speak of it no more until you utter the words- if you ever do. That is your choice to make. I will not force you into a bargain. The truth is, I need you just as much as you need me... in more ways than just one."
I slowly blinked at him, dazed by his candor and yet baffled at the cryptic message he had just delivered. When I uttered nothing in response, he dipped his head in a bow, and swiftly left me standing speechless in the empty garden.
YOU ARE READING
The Gaze of a King
Historical Fiction*Sacred Crowns- Book 2* Her whole life she had been called beautiful. Glances and envious eyes were always cast her way. But never had Bathsheba expected to catch the eye of her King. And never in her wildest imaginings did she anticipate the trage...
