SEVENTY-TWO

Lucius pov

I wish I could claim I acted like a true King would. One who was capable of facing his inner demons and standing against any threat.

But I didn’t. As Eden glared daggers at me, I quickly scanned the room and ran. My exit was followed with hyena-worthy laughter from my best friend and shouting from Eden.

In true coward’s manner, I disappeared around the corner and pressed my back against the wall, attempting to flatten my body against it and stay there unnoticed.

Of course, it all seemed reasonable until Xabat’s laughter echoed in my mind. “Man, we’re not that small, even in the human form. Get away from there, she will come after you.”

The beast had a point. Hiding and pretending I didn’t exist wouldn’t last for long. Sooner or later, I would have to return to Eden. Besides, it wasn’t like I was capable of staying away from her for long anyway - every damn cell in my body pulled me closer to her.

Finally, some luck shone upon me as a servant rounded the corner and walke