EGO

CHOOSE

I still didn't believe what Mina said and I wasn't going to be her scapegoat for not marrying Ericson. She needs to stand up for herself and call off the engagement...I don't want to get involved.

"Call off the engagement first."

"My parents won't let me...marrying him will form the Spiritual and Demon Realm alliance."

"Have you even tried saying no?"

"It's no use, I already know the results, Devin."

"You want me to take the blame for you not marrying Ericson...so you can still look innocent in your parents' eyes..."

She looked at me with guilt on her face.

"Mina, how do you expect to be Queen if you can't even make decisions for your own life?"

There was silence.

"Go home, Mina."

I walked away from her without looking back but she began to follow me. My common sense began to take over my lust and I realized I wanted her but not like this.

"I don't want to have to take anything from you...You need to come to me willingly and unattached."

Entering my room, Raven stood next to my bed. As if Mina wasn't there, she walked over to me waiting for my request.

"You look stressed, my King. Do you need to release?"

Mina stood there surprised and I ignored her presence.

"Yes, I do."

Raven didn't hesitate as she got on her knees, slowly pulling my manhood from my pants. I could hear Mina gasp then run off and I waited for the guilt to run through my veins but nothing happened.

After a few weeks, I still heard nothing from Mina. It wasn't like I was expecting her to anyway. At the next meeting with the Demon King...Ericson announced that Mina accepted his proposal and this time I believe him. I knew she wouldn't go against her parents for me and our last encounter just made her feel better about it.

You could still get her Dev. She doesn't want to marry that prick.

She made her choice, Ollie.

You really just sabotaged being with her....I thought you were over the whole Sophia thing.

I am Ollie, that's why I told Mina to stand up to her parents but she didn't want to and that's fine.

You gave up too easily.

It is what it is. I'm not going to force anyone to be with me....ever.

Our father continued to speak. "Well this is cause for a celebration. The wedding date has been set and the alliance of the realms will begin. Good job, my son."

Ericson smiled as his eyes met mine. I won't lie, I was hurt and the more I thought about Mina choosing him...the more I disliked him.

"Do you have anything you want to say, Ericson?" Our father asked.

Ericson stood up with a new air of confidence that slightly annoyed me. Two naked servants poured glasses of wine that looked too much like blood.

"Thank you, Father, for your support. I hope to have all my brothers' support as well."

He looked at me and I grinned. "You have my support, Ericson."

Bullshit...No he doesn't.

I ignored Ollie.

"Really?" He looked surprised.

"Yes."

He smiled. "I'm happy you said that...because I want you to be my best man."

***

Mina stood, looking at herself in the mirror. Her doubts were getting the best of her and all she could think about was Devin's request for her to stand up to her parents.

I thought accepting Ericson's proposal would relieve my stress but all it has done is made me miserable. Why am I so afraid to make my own decisions? My parents are happy, but what about me?

Are you not happy with your decision, Mina?

I don't know....

Tangela knew she wasn't but wanted Mina to make her own decisions. Devin's reaction to her was harsh but needed. Now she wondered how this will affect their friendship here on out.

At Begonia, Mina wiped down the bar getting things ready for the day. Devin no longer was there frequently and that caused a shift in the atmosphere. Everyone still followed the rules but his absence was still felt.

"He's here!"

Mina heard one of the beauties say in excitement. She smiled at their giddiness and felt the same but was quickly let down by the thought of her and Devin's last encounter. He obviously could have any woman he wanted and jealousy took over her at the thought of him being pleased by another woman.

He is no longer your concern, you should focus on preparing for your future husband.

Mina rolled her eyes at Tangela's words. The thought of Ericson touching her made her body tense up.

Why are you not against this, Gela?

Why should I be? This is what you want.

Soon Marcy walked into the area with a beautiful brunette. Mina smiled and greeted both of the women.

"Hello."

"Hi, Mixie. This is Sasha...she will be taking over your duties here. And congratulations on your upcoming nuptials."

Mina looked surprised and confused at the same time.

"Why am I being relieved of my duties?"

"You should go see Devin."

She quickly went to his office determined to get answers but the closer she got her bravery dwindled. Mina stood at the door, calming her nerves then knocked.

"Come in, Mina."

Her eyes grew wide at his voice. Opening the door, Mina's heart raced at the sight of Devin.

"Please have a seat."

Mina sat down still nervous as Devin's hazel eyes stared into her. He didn't look upset, but his intensity was piercing her soul.

"I-I was told Sasha was taking over the bar now. I just wanted to know where I was moving to."

Her soft voice made him grin.

"Nowhere... "

Mina looked up. "What?"

"You're no longer working here. Today is your last day."