Crown Of Hearts

Chapter 23

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I tensed at his voice and Darius took a step forward so that we were standing side by side.

Eric's face had paled to paper white.

Darius placed a hand around my lower back and pulled me in close. I could smell his cologne and hair gel.

" Don't touch someone that is not yours." He growled. To make things even more convincing, he dropped his head to my neck and glared.

" I'm sorry, Captain. I didn't know she was your girl." Eric apologized, his cheeks regaining color. He quickly took his leave after sending me an apologetic smile.

" Thanks." I said.

He nodded and ran his hands through his hair, " Theo is safe for tonight."

Five words but they were enough to release the anxiety in me.

" Have you told him that his family wants him eliminated ?"

We were both watching Theo now, he was in another corner chatting up yet another group of girls. He looked happy.

" No."

" It won't be me who hurts him, I can guarantee you that." Darius said and I glanced back at him.

" Thank you." Dread filled my bones, " Does that mean you'll kill me now?"

He gave me a odd look, " No, I'll keep your secret for now. I can't promise the same for the second Prince."

A chill went down my spine, Darius had emphasized that Frederick and him were mere months apart when we met. It doesn't take a genius to figure out that they had to be close because of the closeness in age. He was willing to throw away years of friendship so quickly, what else would he do to protect the princes?

What else would he do to me if he found out the Nine wanted to take out the entire royal family?

" Would you like to dance?" He said.

I gave him surprised look.

" I know I tried to kill you and everything, but it looks like we're on the same side for now so can we at least be cordial?"

I nodded slowly.

He took my hand and guided me to the floor. His grip was nothing like I expected. Darius held me loosely, his hands were almost hot.

He spun me and in a smooth motion released me from his grip. My eyes widened and I reached out to grab him but another set of sturdy hands caught me by the waist.

" Hi." Theo's voice was soft against my ear. He adjusted his grip and straightened my elbow with his.

His hand was on my bare back and I relished his touch.

" Hi." I said breathlessly.

Theo was looking past me, a smile rested on his lips. I cranes my neck and Darius nodded in my direction before returning back to the corner.

" You look breathtaking."

My breath hitched, " Thank you."

" Can we talk later?" He was now looking at me, I didn't know it but he had slowly led us to a dim corner.

He dropped our hands and I stopped swaying.

I'll be gone before then.

" Of course."