Alpha King's Healer

4

King Thaddeus leads me down a series of hallways, the candlelight getting dimmer and the decor getting sparse as we continue. We make a turn, finding a very shadow infested hallway. A black wooden door catches my attention, a very off-putting sight. I didn't know what was behind it, and I didn't want to find out.

King Thaddeus starts to open the door, and honestly, I expected dead bodies, a dungeon, the servant's quarters, or even a monster. But that was until I remembered the monster was standing next to me.

Once the door was all the way open, my mouth fell open as I absorbed the room before me.

At Arvendon I had my own room, rather than the servants' quarters. It was very small, just enough room for a lumpy bed and a small dresser. Alpha Dion had given me the room as proof that I was his most prized servant. And also, because my father was his most trusted advisor and requested it for me.

This room, however, was very shadowy, but sumptuous. I get a cold, but yet comfortable feeling from dull color scheme of gold and black. The extremely dim lighting brought about from the candles added a yellow warmth in the decorative room.

The large bed looked very cozy with the plush blanket and silklike pillows. I wanted so badly to throw myself into the bed, imagining what it's like to sink down into the thick mattress.

King Thaddeus releases my arm finally, drawing my attention from the bed. The blood circulation rushes down my arm, heating it back to the original temperature. He presses his large hand to my back to lead, or more so force, me inside.

As I took in the room, a feeling of worry washed over me. The only room that would be this decorated would be the King's sleeping quarters. I remember back to the King speaking for me, claiming me as a mate. Was his proposition more than I thought it to be? Did he actually think we are mates?

My heart rate spiked in speed, hands clamming up with sweat.

"No. This is not my sleeping quarters. Mine is however, just across the hall." King Thaddeus was clearly annoyed, his ability to smell my hormones not being in his favor. "Yes, this room is a luxury, but don't mistake my kindness for weakness. I'll choke you with the same hand I fed you with."

"Can you remove your hand from my back then?" I clenched my jaw tight, trying to hold my tongue from saying anything else based on his previous statement.

King Thaddeus must have forgot his warm hand was still placed at the small of my back as he wastes no time removing it.

He walks to a desk. I cautiously examine him as he lights a small candle to bring about more light. He stands there, watching the flame dance and light up his face before the mirror. He stared at himself, form tense and his eyes narrow. He grips the edge of the desk, knuckles turning white as he leans closer to see himself.

I felt awkward watching him, so I decide to scan around at the lavish decorations.

"Don't ever disrespect me again, especially in front of others," King Thaddeus commands, his voice stern and authoritative as it filled the room. He was referring to the moment we had in the ballroom.

I glance to him, his reflection in the mirror paying attention to me now. I stand silent while he turns and walks to the doorway.

"Why can't I tell anyone about your curse?" I blurt, remembering back to how he had told me to say we are potential mates to keep his secret.

The King pauses. He glances over his shoulder, but he doesn't necessarily look at me.

"If anyone knew of my curse, including my own kingdom, it would be a sign of weakness. With the weakness all hell would break loose. Someone would try to claim my throne for themself, and chaos would take over the kingdom."