~Marked by Moonlight #2
Chapter Three – Ward
AFTER THEY showered and dressed, Ward gave Kayden a list of things that needed done around the castle. Lance and Mika needed a paycheck, and since they weren’t comfortable leaving the castle right now, this was a way for them to earn money.
“Okay, thanks,” Kayden remarked while scanning the list. “Nothing too big, I see. We can definitely manage this. Thank goodness the rain’s stopped.”
“They might not be big projects, but it’s work that does need to be done,” Ward said.
“That’s true. We’ll get started on this. What are your plans for the day?”
“I’m going to have a mock battle with a Rihanna.”
Kayden opened his mouth and closed it again. “Does Rihanna know this?”
“Not yet, but she will shortly. It’s something that needs to be done because no one really knows what she’s capable of.”
Kayden grimaced. “Just… be careful. I know you said it’s a mock battle, but shit can still go sideways.”
“You’re absolutely right, but I will take the utmost care.” Ward leaned over and pressed a kiss to Kayden’s cheek.
They’d showered after they returned to Ward’s bedroom, the steam swirling around them like a warm embrace. The more primitive side of Ward had relished the sight of Kayden using his shampoo and soap.
As they emerged, Ward took a deep, subtle breath, savoring the comforting blend of fragrances that now lingered in the air.
“You know, you’re not as sneaky as you think you are.” Kayden poked Ward in the ribs. “I know you’re sniffing me.”
Ward’s wings flexed as he playfully slapped Kayden’s hand. “What can I say? You smell like mine.”
Kayden’s smile was as bright as a moonlit sky as he hugged Ward hard. “You always know what to say.”
“You make it easy.”
Kayden stepped back, then cleared his throat. “And if you continue saying such sweet things, we’re going to end up in that bed over there. So I’m going to go, and you’re going to do your mock battle—and not get hurt—and then I’ll see you at lunch. Okay?”
“Sounds like a plan to me.”
Kayden discreetly rearranged his cock, glared at Ward when he snickered, and left the bedroom.
As appealing as spending the entire night in bed together was, they both unfortunately had things to do. And speaking of which, he sent Rihanna a text message, asking her to meet him at the grand hallway of the castle.
TWENTY MINUTES later, Rihanna joined him, Celine in tow. Ward hadn’t mentioned bringing along Celine, but as he observed the two women approaching, he realized this unexpected addition might actually work for the better.
Celine was an incredibly strong magic user. Having her with them would ensure the mock battle stayed exactly that—mock. Not that he thought Rihanna would actually attack him.
He didn’t. But magic could be unpredictable and right then Rihanna was the very definition of unpredictable.
Ward led them from the castle to a barren field that was often used for training. The storm left the air crisp and clean, and the sky outside the windows glittered with stars.
“Here?”
“Yes,” Ward said.
“No trees and the ground seems pretty level. That should make things interesting. And muddy.” Rihanna’s voice echoed around them as she looked around.
“Good thing I know a spell to clean us up if we need it,” Ward said.
Rihanna snorted.
Ward knew her skill and strength might rival his, but he was still curious to see how she’d fare against him, the king of his kind.
“You sure you’re ready for this?” Ward asked. Tension crackled between them. The air was charged with electricity as they prepared for their mock battle.
Rihanna smirked. “You sure you are?”
Cockiness was a trait he absolutely could admire.
“I’ll hang back to contain anything that might go wild,” Celine said, moving to the field’s edge. “Please, both of you be careful.”
“Much appreciated, and we will.” Ward rolled his shoulders and cracked his neck, loosening his muscles. “No holding back.”
“As you wish.”
