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King of Tides (The Immortal Iron Brothers #3) Chapter 33 73%
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Chapter 33

We Need to Talk

“ B illy, we should talk,” Ardan says as he paces the pool.

I’m so confused and, to be honest, hurt. I can’t believe Ardan had planned to leave me behind. We’ve been inseparable since he told me I was his mate. Why leave me behind now?

After this morning, after trying to convince me to give up my career, he’s already ready to leave me behind at the first sign of trouble in his world.

As I sit on the side of the bed, I stare down into my hands, thinking. I’m trying to make it all fit together in my head. First, I was suspended for some shit that doesn’t make sense—on my day off at that. Now this.

I don’t know if I want to go with him after all. I blow out a breath and run my hands over my face.

The bed dips as Ardan sits down heavily beside me. He wraps an arm around me and pulls me into his side. This is the coldest I’ve ever felt in his embrace.

“You are overthinking. I don’t know what I’m walking into. The boys are with Kenji. You already know about the challenges with them.

“I didn’t want to bring you along and get their hopes up, then have to leave them behind. In addition, Kenji has been guarding an important item for me, and there are a number of things I need to sort out before I feel comfortable with you in that space. Not to mention, there is Kenji. You know nothing about him.”

“Okay, fine. I can understand that, but why can’t you just tell me about him on the flight there? And don’t you think it’s time to address the situation with the boys? I want to help.”

“First, baby. We’re going to teleport to Japan. Not take a human flight,” he says.

“Oh, I should have thought of that. Well, can’t you show me in your mind?”

“No, that would leave things to interpretation. Kenji is more complicated than that.”

“I thought he was a friend.”

“He is one of my best and most trusted friends. Kenji is what we call a trickster. He means well, and at the heart of things, he’s always doing what he feels is best for everyone. But sometimes the person on the receiving end doesn’t always feel that way initially,” he says.

“You think he would hurt me or something?”

“I don’t think he would intentionally hurt you. But, Billy, you are my mate. I will always be more sensitive about your feelings and what’s done to you.

“You have not seen the true results of my temper. I already have questions involving you and Kenji’s antics. I don’t want him playing his games with you.”

“What sort of games? If I know, I can avoid them,” I say as I get frustrated.

He gives a bit of a cynical chuckle. “That’s the thing. This is what I’m trying to tell you. No one sees Kenji coming. He is a master manipulator. While he holds your focus here, he is giving you a life lesson over there.” He points across the room.

“But you come out on the other side better for it, right?”

“Most of the time. Although, you’ll want to kick his ass for it. He is a good friend and has always been there when I needed him. But I have watched him confuse wars and treat individuals like puppets for his use.

“I chose to send the boys to him for a reason. Kenji has been spinning illusions to keep them happy. It was my best solution to the problem until I can find a permanent one.”

“What kind of being is he? Maybe I should stay behind.”

Ardan laughs and kisses my forehead. “Kendrick is right. Your place is with me. I wouldn’t be able to function without you.

“My source stone is very important. I must protect it at all costs. I left it with Kenji a long time ago so no one would be able to find it or take it,” he replies.

“How do you know he’s not tricking you now?”

“Because my stone isn’t the only one that’s been compromised. Bradan’s has already been taken. We haven’t informed anyone of this fact. The source stone is not a toy.

“Kenji would face severe consequences for its loss if he were to be responsible for its discovery. All of those we have trusted to guard them take the role with the utmost respect and regard.”

“That’s all you had to do, Ardan. I’m really not hard to deal with. I just don’t like feeling like I’m the problem or like …”

He kisses my forehead again. “Or like you’re not wanted. I am very sorry I made you feel that way. I should have thought a little more carefully.”

“No, I understand now. You always have a lot to deal with. If I do decide to resign from my job, I don’t want to lie around all day doing nothing. That’s not me.

“I want to help where I can and learn to use my magic for the good of our people. I’m sure I can use my detective skills in our world.”

He gives me a grin. “I don’t expect you to lie around and do nothing. I’m sure you will find something to take over once things settle. Come, we should go. Dracon and the others will meet us downstairs so we can transport together.”

“Should I pack anything?”

“No, I will be able to get you anything you need once we’re there. Or I can show you how.”

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