Blake, The Vampire King

5. We Can Wait

Jeremiah himself was waiting at the gates, ready to open them on sight it would seem. He had been expecting the two royals, seeing as Blake had informed him he was coming.

“Your highness,” the vampire council’s president greeted, and Blake had to wonder whether the old geezer was faking his respectful tone. He only acknowledged him with a curt nod.

“Hello,” came his mate’s shy greeting from beside him.

He needed to give her reassurance, to comfort her, to tell her that he would be by her side, always, that nothing would ever befall her as long as he breathed. He just hugged her to his side briefly, in an attempt to convey all he wanted to say.

“How’s the old man?” Blake asked as the trio walked ahead at a slow pace towards the palace, while two guards followed, struggling to drag behind the suitcases through the grass.

“His majesty’s health isn’t improving,” Jeremiah deadpanned, and that was as good as saying that the king was dying. Blake was no fool, and he got the message loud and clear.

They remained mostly silent till they reached the palace.

“We would like for the coronation to take place as soon as possible,” Jeremiah announced levelly when they entered the castle where the remaining members of the vampire council waited.

“I’m here, Jeremiah, aren’t I?”

“Yes, your highness,” he nodded awkwardly, a tight smile plastered on his face.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Blake iced out. “Have some trust in me, will you?”

“I’m deeply sorry, your highness. It was not my intention to offend you. We can wait. We shall wait. As long as the king still breathes, we can wait.”