Deaglan’s Deception: The King’s Jewel

I had returned home from my most recent visit to the Otherworld officially engaged to my Anam Cara, my soul mate, and dreaming of a small, intimate wedding. That hope had died when we discovered a small group of my brethren, already on our doorstep. They had set up tents in the forest just outside the estate, and their small camp had quickly grown into the large settlement that was now established there.

Word of my upcoming marriage had spread at lightning speed and the fae continued to arrive, intent on attending the wedding. The number of Sidhe in the camp grew daily, along with my apprehension.

I was jarred from my thoughts by the sound of footsteps approaching from the hallway. The door opened and dishes clanked as someone placed a tray on the table in the sitting area. I didn't turn around, assuming the butler had brought in my breakfast.

"Shamus, I told you not to bother. I'll wait and eat with the twins." I expected a humph of disapproval; instead, a deep throaty voice responded.

"Tressa, don't you know by now? You can't tell that old Brounie what to do."

I grinned as I turned to greet Alexander. He hugged me, pulling me close and kissing the top of my head. His woodsy scent enveloped and soothed me. The edges of our auras rolled and twisted as they danced together. He gave me a reassuring squeeze.

"You worry too much. Every night I hear music, singing and the sounds of people having fun coming from the camp. They must be doing okay. Once the wedding is over, they'll go on their merry way back to wherever they came from."

"I'm not so sure, Xander. I catch conversations on the wind, and they're less and less about the wedding. They're talking about the Treasures being found, and the King's Jewel marrying Nuada's Heir.