Dark Secrets

Always read a document

Chapter 4

(Always read a document)

Lucas was not pleased as he headed towards the councils chambers. He was furious Tori had been forcefully taken even though he was there with her. There was no reason for it. Her father’s house had just been destroyed and someone had killed River and was destroying any evidence that would help in finding the dead wolf’s killer. The prince hated politics. It was one of the reasons he was glad as a child he’d never rule. Unfortunately that changed when Maylene lost the ability to have children after a horrible miscarriage. Now he was first in line for the throne.

He was almost to the door when he saw his father stand up from a bench across from the courtroom.

“Lucas calm down.” Landon instructed.

“They…”

“We know you’re angry but you need to stay calm.” Logan said, standing up and walking over to his brother as well. “The way may not be the best but remember they are giving you Tori. The woman you want is about to be permanently yours.”

Lucas let out a sigh and took a deep breath to steady himself. “River was murdered. There’s no question about it.”

Landon frowned. “I give you my word Lucas I had nothing to do with it.”

“For once I too can claim innocence.” Logan replied.

Lucas looked from one man to the other. It would have been easy to blame them anyway, but he couldn’t. He knew the two men were telling the truth.

“What happened is horrible and unfortunate for the Marks family.” The king said calmly. “I do feel sympathy for them but…I cannot tell you I’m not happy to see Tori returned to you. You couldn’t move past her and the kingdom was at stake. She will be our means of securing our reign and…you love her with all your heart. You couldn’t move on.”

A door opened and the three men turned to see a council guard. “They are ready for you Highness.”

Lucas nodded and entered the room, his father and brother fallowing closely behind.

The princes were all sitting formally behind their large bench. Lucas scanned the room but did not see Tori. ‘Where is she?’ he wondered.

“Have Tori brought in.” Prince Bakari announced. It was only a moment and Tori entered from a side door. Her eyes fell on Lucas and they both gave a silent “Are you okay? What’s going on?” conversation.

“When last we met agreements were made. Tori was allowed to marry River however it had to be within one year. There was also the stipulation if the marriage ended before the time of three years than Tori would be returned to High Prince Lucas. Do you both remember these stipulations?” Prince Pierre inquired.

“Yes.” Lucas replied.

“Yes.” Tori said softly but accordingly.

“Good. While River’s death is unfortunate it does not change facts.” Prince Toshiro began. “It has been less than three years and therefore you belong to Lucas.”

“I under…”

“You will be married in one month.” Prince Bakari announced.

“What?!” Tori and Lucas said shocked. They both looked at each other with concern before looking back at the council.

“River just died!” Lucas said concerned for the woman he loved. “You can’t expect her to…”

“Did you not read the document you both signed?” Prince Miguel inquired. “You both signed this document.” He said holding it up. “This document states should Tori be returned to Lucas she will be married to him within one month’s time.”