Total pages in book: 127
Estimated words: 119942 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 600(@200wpm)___ 480(@250wpm)___ 400(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 119942 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 600(@200wpm)___ 480(@250wpm)___ 400(@300wpm)
As Dario left the dais, Beck spoke. “I thought that the only demon who’d present a reasonable case would be Isla, since the other two just want to avoid answering to someone else. But all three of them have presented proposals that just might appeal to the public.”
“Worse, Dario’s proposal might appeal to the Primes,” commented Martina.
“I think that if the Primes start worrying that the public will want a Monarch, they’ll prefer it was Dario, because it would gain them territory – more power. Even Isla can see that.” Jolene tipped her chin toward the she-demon in question; she was currently glaring at an unsuspecting Dario, clearly seething.
Knox whispered into Harper’s ear, “I have to say a few words and remind everybody what happens next.” The moment he walked onto the dais, the attention of the room settled on him. “Over the course of this weekend, you’ve heard all three proposals, and you’ve heard the opinions of many Primes during the Q&As. Now it’s time to form your own opinion. There are pros and cons of having a Monarch, and there are pros and cons of each proposal. A vote will take place in the Underground two weeks from now. Anyone who votes will only be able to do so once, and each vote will be anonymous. If you vote in favor of a Monarch, you’ll need to also specify which candidate you wish to elect. So think it through, and choose your fate wisely.”
It was as Knox reached Harper that the Primes began to head to his table. Gently pulling Harper to her feet, he spoke briefly to each demon as they thanked him for hosting the event. Knox was sure to refer to Harper as his mate, wanting the news to spread fast.
When Malden approached, he was wearing a very smug smirk. Knox had the feeling that he believed his proposal would be the most favored. “It was good seeing you, Knox. Where’s Raul?”
“He already left with his anchor,” replied Knox.
“I had hoped to say goodbye. Never mind. Jolene, it’s always a pleasure. And Harper, you take care.”
She nodded, smiling. “You too, Malcolm.”
To her amusement, the tick in his cheek did a crazy dance as his smirk fell. “It’s Malden.”
She smacked her forehead with the palm of her hand. “That’s right, sorry.”
As the Prime marched away, Knox smiled against her mouth. “Such a tease.” He inwardly groaned as he sensed a very unwelcome she-demon approaching. Isla’s coming.
My evening is complete.
“Hello, Knox.” So deceptively pleasant.
Knox lifted his head. “Isla.”
“I just thought I’d say farewell. We’ll talk again soon. Oh, and do reconsider electing a Monarch. I could improve so much for our kind.”
His smile was as forced as hers. “Your plea is wasted on me, Isla.”
“You always were stubborn.” Her tone was full of nostalgia. Turning to Harper, she held out a small, black velvet bag. “I wanted to give you something, Harper. Call it a peace offering.”
Dubious, Harper raised a brow. “Yeah? What is it?”
“Open and see.”
Curiosity alone made Harper take and open the little drawstring bag. Inside was some kind of silver chain. She pulled it out, realizing there was a silver pendant hanging from it. It was engraved with a triquetra and had a gold dragon attached to it. It also fairly buzzed with power.
“It’s a protective amulet,” Isla explained. “Be sure to wear it.”
The genuine concern in the she-demon’s voice made Harper look up. With a regal nod, Isla turned away and left. “I’m guessing this thing is cursed or something, because there’s just no way that that woman wants me protected.”
Knox took the amulet and closed his hand around it. “There’s power in this.”
“I know, I felt it. But it didn’t feel bad.”
“It isn’t.”
“You’re saying Isla wants to protect Harper?” Levi was clearly skeptical.
“No,” replied Knox. “I’m merely saying there’s no negative power attached to the amulet.”
“Maybe she wants to appear concerned for Harper, hoping it will make us think she’s innocent in all the shit that’s been going on,” theorized Tanner.
“That seems more likely than her giving Harper some kind of lucky charm.” Martina scowled at Harper. “Don’t think I haven’t noticed that you don’t wear the necklace I gave you with the fishbone charm on it. It’s for good luck.”
Harper frowned. “How can it give good luck? Things didn’t exactly go well for the fish.”
Beck’s laugh earned him a glower from Martina.
“Well, sweetheart, I’m afraid we have to leave.” Jolene gave Harper a tight, one-armed hug. “Come visit me soon, bring Knox. And Tanner and Levi can come along.” She smiled. “It’s always nice to have things around that are pretty to look at.”
Once she’d said her goodbyes to Martina and Beck, Harper turned to Knox. “After we’ve picked up our luggage from upstairs, I’d like to go to my apartment and see what survived the spell.”