The Shadows of Royalty

The Bloody Accusations Part 2

"Red or white wine?" He asked, his eyes glancing over me.

I shook my head. "Underage, can't drink."

His eyes remain on the red wine he was pouring himself. I took a seat in the comfortable couch, watching him intently.

When he was finished, he came and handed me a glass while he took a long swing from his. Was he planning to get drunk?

I wonder if he's a happy drunk or one those sad drunks, crying their eyes out. Aurora chimed disturbing me from my intense observations.

I shivered at the thought. I glanced at the glass I held not knowing what to do with it since I had already exclaimed that I couldn't drink alcohol.

Liam sat in the couch before me, facing me.

"It's sparkling water, don't be afraid." He pointed towards my glass. Well I was kind of afraid that he poisoned it or put a roofie in it.

I placed the glass onto my lips and let the liquid fall into my mouth. The lime taste buds exploded within my tongue, causing me to savor it. Indeed, sparkling water. I shifted in my seat uncomfortably feeling his eyes boar through me.

He suddenly broke the silence. "What can I do for you, Miss Avery?"

I inhaled. "I am here to ask some questions as I told you. None that I want to offend you, but it's just..." I stopped realizing what I was about to say.

His gaze remained locked with in mine and he continued the sentence for me. "It's just you can't help that you are suspicious of me."

My breath hitched as my eyes couldn't return to meet his. Suspicions..... Indeed they are suspicions. What can I possibly say in reply, right now?

"Rachel?" My head snapped at the sound of his voice.

It was either now or never.

"Yes, suspicions." I blurted, as I waited for his outburst.

But never-less did he stay cool. He leaned further back into the couch, twirling his glass in amusement. Something was definitely off with the Duke. The cold glare on his face dropped into a smile, as his head cocked backwards. I jumped when a chuckle sounded before me. No way. A man that death glared and stared into the depth of your soul can laugh like that? His voice sounded carefree and surprisingly I found his laugh lovable because of its rich tone.

Unusual! Aurora observed, making my mind race. She continued...Maybe because he finally got laid. I feel sorry for that poor unlucky girl.

I almost spat out the sparkling water and started chocking. I swallowed my inward hysterical laughter and couldn't help but think that half the girls in the castle would give their souls to the devil just for a night with the Duke. Rumors said he was quite talented when it came to that type of affairs. Not that I was interested in the first place.

I watched his grin fade, as he kicked off his shoes. My eyes widened at his actions. His fingers threw a few buttons of his oxford shirt open, further more causing Aurora to drool inappropriate comments in my mind.

My hesitance grew when he froze and opened his mouth. "Why don't you enlighten me?"

He thinks that I am being silly. A mere girl that can cue his boredom...

I felt my cheeks burn and my jaw clenching. "I am not here for your amusement, neither entertainment. If that's what you desire, I am aware that His Highness had thrown an all men party containing entertainments that you shouldn't miss."