The Summer Marked Read online

  He chuckled then took a sip of his drink. “That it is. But I didn’t want to have dinner with you to discuss the weather.”

  Nevin slipped a golden box with pearl inlay from behind the basket of rolls and handed it to me.

  My mouth went dry. “Wh—what is this?”

  “Open it and find out.”

  This better not be another attempt at trying to make me his queen. Just because Gareth was gone didn’t mean I’d change my mind. When the top finally opened, I gasped. Nestled against the blue velvet interior was a sapphire and diamond bracelet.

  “Nevin, I can’t take this.”

  “Of course you can.” He took it from me and hooked it on my wrist. “Think of it as a gift to cheer you up.”

  The cool stones kissed my skin. This thing had to be worth thousands of dollars. “Wow. I mean, thanks.”

  His gaze softened. “I know you miss Gareth. So I wanted to do something nice for you. To make your stay easier.”

  “I appreciate it, but you don’t have to give me gifts.” My thumb traced the dark blue gems.

  “I wanted to. Besides, you’ll need something to wear to the ball tomorrow.”

  “Ball? As in dancing, dresses, fairytale stuff?”

  He stood. “That’s exactly what I mean. I know how much you like ballroom dancing. It’ll give you a chance to mingle more with our people and forget how far away Gareth is.”

  He’d obviously never been in love before. You don’t just forget someone because they’re not with you. With a sigh, I forced a smile. “Sounds fun.”

  Nevin caught my hand in his and gave it a squeeze. “I’ll see you tomorrow then.”

  He ushered the maids in to clean the table off. When they finished, he waved goodbye and left me alone. By now the sun was sinking beneath the treetops as nightfall crept in, and I walked onto the balcony. I rested my elbows on the railing and watched tiny stars flicker to life like glitter caught in beams of light.

  My chest tightened. “Gareth, can you hear me?”

  But there was no answer through our link. Maybe he didn’t want to be distracted while on his missions.

  “I miss you.” The thoughts poured out before I could stop them. My hands clamped the railing as I waited. Still no response. My gaze scoured the sky. In the distance, I noticed the large clouds that loomed, threatening Winter’s darkness. I wrapped my arms across my chest and shivered. Gareth was somewhere out there…and who knew what kind of danger awaited him.

  Nevin offered me his arm as he led me down the staircase and into a lavish ballroom. Twinkling bulbs of light floated above us, like our own starry night. The scent of flowers tiptoed on the breeze that blew through the opened room. Nobles gathered along the edges of the floor, chatting and laughing. A few whispered when they saw me enter. Nervous tingles fluttered in my stomach.

  Please don’t let me screw up any dance moves.

  A group of elven musicians raised their instruments: wooden flutes, a harp, something that looked like a lute, and a violin.

  “Smile,” Nevin whispered in my ear.

  I glanced at him, my lips quivering. “Sorry, I’m just freaking out a little.”

  “Why?”

  “Um—I haven’t danced in a while.”

  He chuckled, giving me a pointed look. “You’ll be fine. If I remember correctly, you told me you used to do the ballroom and swing dancing competitions. Not to mention you seemed to handle yourself well during our date in the woods.”

  “Why do you keep doing that?” I snapped, glaring at him.

  “Doing what?”

  “Trying to bring up what happened in the human world? I don’t know what you’re up to, but I don’t plan on dumping Gareth. The sooner you get that through your freaking noble head, the sooner I might consider being your friend.”

  Nevin frowned. “Fine, if that’s what you wish. Let’s just dance and forget about everything between us.”

  “Again, I haven’t danced in ages. I’d hate to embarrass you and myself.”

  “You won’t. Besides, one does not forget how to dance.”

  I glared at him. “Says the man who’s had centuries of practice.”

  His hand slid to my waist, and he led me to the middle of the floor. The musicians struck up a haunting tune, and Nevin swept me into his arms, twirling me about the room.

  “See, you’re doing it.” He bent forward to whisper in my ear.

  Others stopped to watch our intricate movements as we glided, dipped, and spun. I closed my eyes for a moment, letting myself relax and enjoy it. Soon the music changed to something more upbeat.

  Fae laughed, weaving in and out of one another. I laughed too, clapping my hands as Nevin released me to follow behind a group of men. They bowed to the ladies then spun us around. I lost myself in the line of gyrating bodies. Even if I didn’t want to admit it, this was fun—and exactly what I needed.

  Then how come I feel so guilty?

  Because Gareth was out trying to fight Winter, or at least find out what they were up to, and I was prancing around at a ball.

  My smile faded. Nevin’s arm wrapped around me once more as he tugged me to his chest.

  “What’s wrong?”

  “I—sorry, it’s just I somehow feel like I shouldn’t be doing this. I mean, my boyfriend’s gone, and I’m partying.”

  He caught my chin, tilting it upward. “Trust me, he wants you to continue to live. He doesn’t expect you to spend every waking moment in your room pining after him.”

  With a sigh, I stepped back in an attempt to put distance between us. “It just doesn’t feel right to be celebrating and enjoying myself.”

  Nevin followed me as I made my way off the dance floor. “Salome, please wait.”

  His fingers brushed my shoulder and I stopped in a shadowed alcove. “I appreciate what you’re trying to do, I really do. I just…”

  He spun me to face him. “There’s nothing wrong with missing him. But there’s also nothing wrong with enjoying yourself—with living. You want him to come home to more than an empty shell spent from worry.”

  Tears blurred my vision, and I tried to let his words comfort me, but it was no use. I missed Gareth, and nothing he could do would change that.

  “Why don’t I go get you a glass of punch? You can stay over here and get yourself together.” He glanced down at me. “I’ll send Gwenn over with you until I get back.”

  I sniffled, wiping the back of my hand across my face to get rid of any evidence of my breakdown. The last thing I wanted was for Gareth’s sister to think I was a crybaby. “Sure, thanks.”

  I backed further into the shadows and leaned against the wall. My fingers trailed the blue lace fabric of my dress as I listened to the music swell. Everyone was having a good time. Why couldn’t I?

  Because you have a conscience.

  Okay, so maybe that was unfair. The Fae probably missed their soldiers too. But as my gaze traveled the room, I realized no one seemed fazed in the least. I saw Nevin catch Gwenn’s attention, then a moment later, I watched as she weaved her way through the crowd.

  “Well if it isn’t the human again,” a feminine voice said beside me.

  I spun and found Rowena glaring at me. “You. You tried to kill me!”

  She sneered. “Prove it.”

  My pulse raced through my veins. I took a step away from her. “Nevin will be back soon.”

  “Nevin? Are you on a first name basis with the king now?” Her too-red lips formed a thin line. “He’ll soon grow tired of you, human. And then you’ll become another one of his pets. ”

  “Nevin’s my friend, he wouldn’t do anything to hurt me.”

  “Wouldn’t he? Our people use your kind for toys and entertainment. You’re nothing but animals to us.”

  My jaw clenched. My gaze burned into her. “That’s because you’re a monster.”

  “You have no idea.” She smiled, leaning closer as if to intimidate me.

  The air around us sizzled. A low hum r
esonated beneath my feet. I stumbled back, the need to get away from this crazy lady overwhelming. My hand went to the dagger Gareth had given me, belted at my side. Would I be quick enough to defend myself?

  “Hey!” Gwenn stepped into the alcove with her sword drawn, eyes piercing and out of breath.

  Rowena lowered her hands and rushed into the crowd. Air hissed from my lips as I released my breath. “Thank you.”

  My guard’s head snapped around, and she stared me down. “Can’t you stay out of trouble?”

  “I didn’t do anything,” I said. “Nevin left me to get punch, and she cornered me.”

  “Yes, that might be the case, but you’re trouble because you can’t defend yourself. You’re an easy target for her.”

  My body trembled as rage swirled through me. “Well, I didn’t ask for this. I never wanted to come to Summer to begin with. And it’s not like I’ve had tons of extra time to train. Gareth managed to show me how to use a dagger, but that’s about it.”

  “Too bad, because you’re here now. And starting tomorrow, you’ll learn how to fight. I can’t be here to jump into all your battles for you.”

  I swallowed. “Wait, what?”

  “You’re to meet me down by the soldiers’ barracks after lunch. I won’t go easy on you just because you’re the king’s guest.”

  “What if I refuse?”

  “Then I’ll come drag your sorry arse down here. Now, go on up to your room. I’ll tell Nevin you got sick. Tavyn, escort Lady Salome upstairs.” She waved one of the other guards over.

  He nodded and ushered me away from the festivities.

  I rubbed my forehead. God, what the hell did I ever do to her—or Rowena for that matter?

  And so what if I’m human?

  Besides, if the Fae were so strong and powerful, how come they could never free Nevin in the human world? Assholes.

  Not wanting to deal with anything else, I stormed out of the ballroom, following close behind my guard as we went upstairs. More than anything, I wanted to go home—to see my family. Or maybe take a trip to Texas to see Kadie. I chewed my bottom lip. I missed my best friend. Right now, she was probably making out with Zac and having a good time; she always had a good time. If only she was here to make this better.

  Chapter Nineteen

  Kadie

  The horses raced through the night, as if hellish fiends chased them. When the wicked, needle-like spires of the castle came into view, my stomach twisted and my body quaked beneath me. I squeezed my eyes tight, trying not to imagine the horrific punishment I’d receive.

  I shouldn’t have run. They’re going to kill me now.

  Panic rushed through me. Could Etienne come to my rescue again without putting himself in danger?

  A whimper sounded from beside me, and I turned to see Teodor’s horse come to a halt. He shoved Demetria off the side of it, then hopped down next to her, hunched over and whispering what I was sure were horrific things in her ear.

  “Knock it off!” I screeched, jerking free from Etienne and bolting off our horse. “Haven’t you caused her enough pain?” Without a second thought, I jerked my dagger from its sheath and raced the short distance over the frozen landscape. Teodor turned just in time to see me lunging for him.

  My blade sliced across his face. He grabbed me by the throat and threw me to the side. He touched the fresh cut along his cheek, then fisted his hand. “You scarred me? You will pay for this, you human bitch.”

  Before he could strike me, Etienne caught his arm. “No. She’s my prisoner.”

  “You would keep me from punishing her? You really are a traitor. You’re choosing her over us.”

  “No, I’m not, but the queen will deal with them soon enough.” He turned to me. “You might want to hold your tongue,” Etienne whispered. “You’re in enough trouble. Don’t give him more reason to hurt you.”

  “I doubt it’s gonna matter at this point if I stand up to Prince Asshole.”

  “Enough.” His arm tightened around me. “We can still salvage you.”

  Salvage? I wasn’t some junked out car. Besides, once the queen got hold of me, I’d likely become a new lamp in her bedroom…or worse.

  Grisselle emerged from the gates, guards at her heels.

  “Bring them to the throne room,” she ordered.

  One of the guards jerked me and shoved me forward. I caught myself on the stone wall, my legs weak beneath me. I wasn’t sure I’d be able to deal with what was to come. I swallowed hard, biting back the fear that paralyzed me. Maybe now would be a good time to turn my dagger on myself. At least then I could make it quick and not be tortured.

  Oh God. I can’t go back in there. I can’t.

  “Get moving,” the troll growled.

  Demetria staggered inside ahead of me, Teodor giving her a shove as he went.

  Hatred burned through me, and it was all I could do not to chase after Teodor and kick him in the nuts. My hands fisted as I glared after him. Another push from the troll sent me stumbling down the hallway toward the throne room. When we stood before the throne made of bones, Grisselle sat, back rigid, with her face frozen in a horrific sneer.

  My gaze flickered around. There were four guards, Etienne, Teodor, Demetria, me, and the queen. And at the center of the room sat a large stone block. I couldn’t breathe. What did they plan to do to us?

  Grisselle stared at me. “I know this plan to escape was your idea. Teodor’s pet wouldn’t have dared such a thing if you hadn’t put her up to it. But nevertheless, she’ll be taught a lesson. You’ll know I’m not playing games with you.”

  My chest tightened. I stiffened and took several staggered breaths as my heart pounded in my ears.

  “Bring your pet here,” the queen said to Teodor. She stood, long black gown swishing at her feet. Excitement radiated from her as she made her way to the block at the center of the room.

  A troll guard stalked forward with a large axe propped over his shoulder. Teodor gripped hold of Demetria’s dress and pulled her across the marble floor. When they got to the stone, he heaved her onto her knees, then shoved her body across it so that her head and neck hung off the edge.

  A sob retched through me as I attempted to run for her, but one of the guards caught my arm and tugged me back.

  “No—please…” I begged. “Maybe I can tell you some information you need—if—if you spare her. I’m begging you.”

  “No, you had your chance,” Grisselle said. “You should’ve thought about this before you chose to deceive me.” She sat back down, cradling a wine goblet in her hand as if to watch a show.

  “It’s okay, Kadie. I’m ready to meet my maker,” Demetria said. Tears flowed down her face.

  “Please. Don’t do this,” I shrieked. “I’ll tell you whatever you want to know about Salome.” Except I knew that if it came down to it, I couldn’t tell her everything she wanted to know, which meant I was playing a very dangerous game. I couldn’t betray my friends, but I also couldn’t stand here and let her kill Demetria.

  “My, aren’t you cooperative now? And so quickly you turn on your dearest, closest friend. But no matter; whatever information you have will not save Teodor’s pet.” She turned away from me. “Off with her head,” Grisselle said, pointing at Demetria.

  I squeezed my eyes shut, refusing to watch. A thwack echoed through the room.

  “Open your eyes—see what you’ve caused,” Grisselle said.

  Her head had been severed from her body

  “I should’ve had your head too, but to see you suffer like this, watching your friend die, is much more pleasurable.”

  An angry sob erupted from my lips. “You’re a sick fucker! You all are. And I hope one day that you burn in hell.”

  The queen’s head snapped around. “You’d do well to keep quiet or you’ll be the next one put on the block. Now get this wretched girl out of my face. In fact, I think another night in the Red Room will do her some good.”

  Etienne caught me around the
waist. “You, come with me.”

  “I just want this over with,” I whispered, my shoulders hunched.

  He led me down the familiar hallway. When we got to the room, he gave me a sad look. “Be strong. You’re alive, which means you still have a chance to get out of here.” He turned to leave, then stopped and said, “Do you think Demetria would have wanted you to give up?” With that, he locked me in.

  My head pounded, and my body ached. I swallowed hard, but my throat was raw from crying. Not even stopping long enough to glance around the room, I rushed into the courtyard to where Mr. Montgomery’s tree-like form still stood. It looked more ragged than last time I’d been in here. The bark-like skin seemed to be peeling off, and his rooted feet bled into the already dingy snow.

  “Kadieeeee…what’s ha-happened?”

  I collapsed at his trunk, and one of his branchlike arms touched my shoulder. “It’s all my fault. D-Demetria’s dead because of me. I-I tried to escape. I thought we’d make it…”

  A low moan sounded from Mr. M’s lips. “But you’re alive—th-that’s what matterssss.”

  Then how come I didn’t feel that way? Maybe if I had told Grisselle whatever she wanted to know….Maybe if I’d spilled everything I knew about Salome and Gareth and…

  What good was holding on to these secrets if people died anyway? If it led to me dying, too? I couldn’t help anyone if I was dead. And I’d rather live to regret a mistake than not live at all.

  I nestled closer to Mr. M’s treelike form. I was never gonna get out of here, and sometime soon, the queen might decide to do to me what she’d done to so many others. Deep down, I was a fighter, but even I couldn’t hold out forever.

  They’d gotten what they wanted. I was broken.

  My bloodied cloak clung to me as I lay on the stone bench. Snowflakes drifted from the sky like ashes from a crematory and landed on me. My head throbbed from crying, and I didn’t want to move—ever.

  “Kadie, you should go inside. Y-You’ll freeze to death out here,” Mr. Montgomery said. Thick, gooey, blood-like sap spilled from the corners of his mouth.

  “Maybe that’d be for the best.” I tugged my knees to my chest, curling into a tight ball. Too bad I couldn’t shut my eyes and just have it be over.