Hidden Knights (Knights of the Realm #3) - Jennifer Anne Davis Page 0,4
order to circumvent someone’s plans, Reid had to know what his or her end goal was. Anna’s appeared to be killing the king, which was what Reid hoped to accomplish as well. So what was she missing? Something didn’t feel right.
“Gordon will return to the City of Buckley, where the majority of his soldiers are stationed.” Anna folded her hands, leaning her elbows on the table as she continued to explain. “He will then lead them to the City of Radella.”
Reid narrowed her eyes. Anna wanted Gordon to lead the fight, effectively ensuring his demise. Which happened to be rather convenient since Gordon was the only person who could contest the throne since Ackley’s title had been stripped.
“Very well,” Gordon replied. “I’ll leave tomorrow.” He stood, then exited the room.
“I hope you keep him on as the commander of your army,” Henrick said to Dexter. “You’ll need someone like him at the helm.”
Reid glanced at Henrick. “You intend to remain dead?” Even after they finished this, he didn’t want to return to his family?
“Yes.” Henrick took a sip of his water. “I think it’s time someone younger inherits the throne. Dexter is ready. He should be king.”
While Reid agreed, there was one major problem—she didn’t want to be queen. “Ackley, you have no objections to this plan? You’re okay with Dexter inheriting the throne?”
“I’m on board on one condition.”
“Which is?” Anna asked.
“I’m the one who kills Eldon.”
Chapter Two
“Why must you always be so difficult?” Anna asked Ackley.
He simply smiled.
“You can be the one to kill Eldon so long as you don’t hesitate because he’s your brother. It needs to be a clean, quick kill.”
“Consider it done.” He shoved his chair back, extending his legs and crossing them at the ankles.
Dexter stood. “If you’ll excuse us. It has been a long day.” He held his hand out to Reid.
She slid her hand into his and rose. They headed for the door.
“Are you retiring for the night?” Ackley asked, his voice holding a hint of mischief. He laced his fingers behind his head, peering at them.
“We are.” Dexter started walking faster.
“Well, now. If I remember correctly, you two aren’t actually married.” Ackley smiled at Reid.
“You told me you were,” Duke Ellington huffed.
Reid froze at the doorway. “We were in the middle of the ceremony when Eldon announced Prince Henrick’s death and the Melenia army stormed the palace.”
“So you’re not wed?” Anna asked.
“No,” Reid answered.
“We can’t move forward with our plans until you are,” Anna stated, briefly glancing at the ceiling as she tried to mask her irritation. In that moment, she reminded Reid of Kamden.
“Tell me, Reid, do you still want to marry my son?” Henrick inquired.
“Why are you asking her this now?” Dexter demanded, his hand tightening around Reid’s. “We’ve already discussed why we should marry. You and I have already agreed. There is no need to rehash it.”
Shaking his head, Henrick said, “That was before. Everything is different now since you will take up the mantle as king. It is a huge responsibility. Reid should have a choice. She needs to be a willing participant. Quite simply, I’m not convinced Reid wants to be queen.”
She didn’t want to be queen. The mere thought overwhelmed her. She had no idea what her responsibilities would be in such a position.
“We can train her,” Anna insisted.
“I’m sorry,” Dexter said, addressing Anna. “But if anyone is going to help Reid navigate her duties, it will be my mother, Princess Nara. You’re dead. As such, you have no say in Reid’s life.” He looked at Reid. “I’m sorry if I’ve overstepped my place,” he murmured so only she could hear.
“Thank you all for your concern,” Reid said, addressing those present. “However, I intend to stand by Dexter’s side. If that means I will be the queen of Marsden, then so be it.” Turning, she glided out of the room, Dexter behind her.
She supposed she would have to get used to standing up for herself if she were to be queen. Thoughts of Harlow formed. What would happen to Harlow once Eldon was dead? The conversation Reid had with the queen still haunted her. Harlow had said not everyone supported the removal of the king. Did that include her?
When Dexter and Reid entered their bedchamber, Dexter started pacing.
“What’s the matter?” she asked, pulling off her boots and tossing them on the floor.
“I can’t stay in this manor.” He tilted his head, cracking his neck. “Not with Anna here. I don’t trust her.”