on my wrist comm, just made us legally married in the eyes of my people. You are safe now, human.”
Her mouth dropped open. “That’s wonderful. Are-are we going to say the vows now?” Hope lifted inside her, vanquishing her worries. They were married. Legally married. And now that awful Kall commander couldn’t come back and try to drag her away for a public execution in town. The shock of his threat hadn’t entirely faded, and her hands were still shaking, ever so slightly.
“Yes, Layla, we will say our vows now.”
She smoothed her hands over her hair, then her dress, thankful that she’d worn one of the nicest gowns Zamek had given her today, and she faced the Holy One with an expectant look that soon turned to a broad smile. She couldn’t help but grin. She couldn’t recall the last time she’d felt this happy. She just hoped Zamek wasn’t sugarcoating anything. She truly hoped the High Council wouldn’t vote to charge him with treason.
Zamek grasped her hand and brought it to his lips for a quick kiss. In the background, she heard Fallonn emit a dreamy sigh.
The ceremony was quick, and once they finished exchanging vows, Zamek thanked the Holy One again. Two servants stepped forward holding boxes brimming with fresh fruits and vegetables, and Zamek added a bag of coins to one box. The servants then followed the Holy One up the mountain with the gifts.
“That was kind of you,” Layla said, squeezing her husband’s hand.
Husband. He’s my husband.
A thrill rushed through her.
“I intend to send them more supplies soon,” Zamek said, guiding her into the house. A frown marred his face as they reached one of the sitting rooms, where a video comm was set up. “I am sorry that I cannot carry you directly to our bedchamber, wife, as is custom. Before that, I must contact my friends at the High Council.”
“It’s all right, husband,” she said. “I understand. But just so you know, I’m wearing those thin red panties you like so much today.”
He growled and gave her a heated look.
Chapter 25
The sound of an airship touching down outside drew a curse from Zamek. He rose to his feet and marched to the window.
Not only was Commander Vavvis conscious again, but he’d dared to land an airship in front of Zamek’s house. Two warriors from Brutt District accompanied him, but there was no sign of Councilors Horth and Crozz this time.
“I will fight with you cousin,” Xazzok said, appearing in the doorway, clutching a sword in one hand.
“You’re a retired warrior,” Zamek pointed out.
“I didn’t retire because I grew old and feeble, I served the required minimum of ten years in the Kall army and then I decided to run a vineyard and take a wife I couldn’t ever bear to be apart from.” He stood tall in the doorway, holding the sword higher. “But I still practice my battle skills daily.”
“Zamek,” Layla said in a shaky tone.
He turned to face his new bride. Worry clouded her eyes and her hands trembled at her sides.
“All will be well, wife,” he said, reaching out to cup her face. He pressed a quick kiss to her lips and met her eyes. “Stay here. Inside the house. I expect both you and Fallonn, as well as all the servants, to remain inside with the doors and windows locked. Once Xazzok and I step outside, I will activate the house-wide security system.” He was confident he would best Commander Vavvis and the foolish warriors who’d come with him, but when it came to Layla’s safety, he would not take any chances.
“Please, be careful,” Layla said, tears glittering in her eyes. “I-I don’t want to lose you.”
He softened his expression. “You won’t lose me.” After one final kiss, he joined Xazzok in the entryway, where he donned his weapons’ belt, but kept his battle-ax out in his hand. He turned to peer at Layla one last time. “You shouldn’t watch,” he said.
Then he was gone. Out the door with his battle-ax held high. He paused long enough to set the house-wide alarm, then he focused on the three foolish males who would undoubtedly die today.
“We are here to take you into custody, on behalf of Kall authorities. We are also here to collect your slave and deliver her for execution.” Commander Vavvis snarled. “Throw down your weapons and surrender.”
“Hm. I don’t think you’re here for any of that, Commander,” Zamek said in a condescending tone. “Layla and I have just