Spectrum (Stone Society #14) - Faith Gibson Page 0,106

freezer. Penelope will be coming back to stay with you for a while.” Priscilla’s sister and her family watched over the villa when it wasn’t occupied.

Rafe swallowed his food and wiped his mouth. “Why is Penelope coming? We have you.”

“I’m going home. Kaya is doing well, and I have a grandbaby to meet.”

“But we need you here.”

“And Sophia needs me there. Penelope can take care of feeding you in my absence.”

“It’s not about the food.” Rafe slapped his hand on the table, startling Sebastian. His little face scrunched, and Kaya set her fork down so she could cradle him against her shoulder.

Patting Bas’s back, Kaya glared at her mate. Again. “We’ll be fine with Penelope. Have you already talked to Bryce?” she asked Priscilla. The Clan’s pilot had remained with them at the villa instead of traveling back to the States.

“I’m flying commercial. I didn’t want to leave you without the jet.”

“Nonsense. It’s not like Rafael’s going to take me anywhere, so you might as well fly in comfort.”

“Now wait a second. Last time I looked, I was King.” Rafael pushed his chair back and stood.

Kaya didn’t miss the opportunity to snap back. “And I’m still Queen. Although hiding out halfway across the world really isn’t affording me the opportunity to be there for my Clan.” The words had the intended effect. Rafe’s face went from mutinous to hurt, but Kaya was tired of the pity party for one. He tossed his napkin onto his unfinished breakfast and strode from the room, slamming the back door on the way outside.

“That went well,” Priscilla deadpanned before sipping her coffee.

“If I thought I could get away with it, I’d pack my bags and go with you. I’ve tried talking to him. Reasoning with him. I’m tired of being used as his scapegoat.” Kaya kissed Sebastian’s temple before placing him on her lap. “What are we going to do with your papa?” she whispered to her son.

Priscilla’s face softened. “I would say give him time, but…”

“As long as Frey is taking care of the Clan, he has no reason to go home. Is it horrible I wish something would happen so Rafe had to return? I love my mate, but I don’t know how much longer I can take this.”

Rafael didn’t go far. He never strayed too far away from Kaya. Rarely did he invade her privacy, but he couldn’t help but listen in as his mate and housekeeper talked about him. Kaya had asked more than once to return to the States, and he refused every time, claiming she wasn’t ready. In truth, he wasn’t ready. He had failed his family. Failed his Clan. He wasn’t fit to be King, but Kaya didn’t see it that way. Kaya was right that Frey was doing a wonderful job in his absence. More than once he considered turning the crown over to his cousin. Frey was a born leader. He had military experience. If only Roberto had been the eldest brother, Frey would have been the rightful heir to the throne.

Kaya was also right that he was using her as an excuse to stay away, but hearing her desperation was breaking his heart. When the back door opened a few minutes later, he didn’t have to look to know it was her. Kaya was as much a part of him as his Goyle.

“Walk with me?” she requested. The hesitation in her voice was a kick to the nuts. Kaya should never have to doubt him, but lately, he had given her no reason not to.

“Of course.” Rafael wanted to pick his mate up and carry her to the cliffs. It wasn’t a short walk, but she needed this. Needed to not only get exercise as the doctor suggested, but to also feel capable. Kaya was a strong woman. Determined. It was one reason she was on her way to a full recovery so quickly. She had been moving about the villa without using her cane as often, but when she did, it was more for his benefit than hers. Or maybe she kept it handy so she could beat him over the head with it. He wouldn’t blame her if she did.

When they arrived at the edge of their land, Kaya stood silently, gazing out over the water. She had remained quiet during the walk, but he sensed her thoughts were as tumultuous as the sea below. The wind coming off the vast expanse of dark water whipped at the tendrils of hair that