The Dark King

by C. J. Abedi

  “I haven’t really given it too much thought.”

  “She is not your wife or your mate, and you are my son, and I do have my rules. She cannot stay here. Do you understand?”

  I had the sudden urge to laugh. Odin was laying down his laws now? There had never been any rules. But I understood and would not argue the point. Frankly, the last thing I wanted was for Katya to even enter Odin’s home, let alone stay the night.

  “Perfectly.”

  I silently wondered if he saw what was to come.

  “Would you like to know what I see?” he asked with a soft smile.

  I did not. He would never tell me something that was bad. It would only be a vision of a future I could never have. A future with Caroline.

  “If you believe that it will never be.”

  I was quiet for a moment, clearing my mind so I could utter the next words with finality as Odin turned his back to me and began running his hands down the trunk of the closest tree.

  “I need you to understand this because it is what I believe to be true. Therefore, according to your theories, it will be. Once my father has met the gates of hell, you will never see me again. Ever.”

  When Odin turned around, I was gone.

  C

  The one absolute truth you can always rely on is that while we are on this earth, time will inevitably move forward, no matter how badly you don’t want it to.

  Sunday came faster that I had hoped, and the next thing I knew, I was sitting next to Teddy, and we were on our way to Devilyn’s to practice our scenes.

  I had literally changed my clothes four times, even putting mascara on, trying desperately to make a real effort to look better than I did Monday through Friday at school.

  I knew that Devilyn wasn’t interested in me, but I kind of wanted him to know what he was missing. If that was even possible. I knew what kinds of girls he was into, and I wasn’t even in the same stratosphere. Nevertheless, I needed this. I needed to feel good about myself. Because the better I felt, the less the reality of my situation hurt my heart.

  It’s funny, but I never thought that I would be so relieved to be disappointed by reality instead of being encouraged by a lie. I was so grateful that Devilyn had told me about his girlfriend. I couldn’t imagine the idea of continuing to think about him day in and day out like some lovesick, pathetic teenager. But despite this, I still wanted Devilyn to think I was hot. I would never do anything disrespectful, but I could at least look good.

  I had settled on a pair of skinny dark blue jeans and a fitted black knit V-neck sweater. Over the summer I had paid way too much money for a pair of high-top black tennis shoes with a bit of a wedge heel on a whim because they were trendy. I hadn’t worn them once. But today I decided to put them on. Famous had watched me curiously all morning as he lounged on the bed, probably wondering if an alien had taken over my body. Once I put the shoes on, I confirmed that indeed one had.

  When Teddy came to pick me up I saw him check me out, which was weird, but from it I confirmed that I cleaned up nicely.

  Maybe there is something to this makeup thing, I thought, stealing a glance at myself in the mirror.

  “Are you wearing perfume?” he asked, breaking the silence in the car.

  I wish I could stop the blush that crept up my face.

  “No. It’s just one of those coconut lotions I bought at the mall over the summer.”

  “Ah.” Teddy gave a knowing grin.

  “What’s that supposed to mean?”

  “Oh, come on!” he said as he practically laughed in my face. “Caroline Ellis, you never wear lotion! Least of all, the smelly kind!”

  “My hands were dry!” I told him, rolling my eyes.

  “Oh, please, dry hands? How can they be dry when you’re clearly so nervous?”

  “Why would I be nervous?” I practically screamed.

  “I know why you’re all dolled up, and don’t get me wrong, you look hot.” I blushed again from his choice of adjective, the exact one that I wanted Devilyn to think of when he saw me. “But you don’t need to do anything to yourself. You’re beautiful the way you are.”

  “Aw, thanks, Teddy.” I knew he meant what he said, but still, he was my friend and was for sure biased. “I knew there was a reason why I kept you around.”

  “Dry hands,” Teddy repeated as he gave another big chuckle.

  My heart started to beat faster as Teddy turned onto the long gated driveway and made his way down the tree-lined road.

  “Wow! This is incredible,” Teddy whispered.

  It really was incredible. The woods that the Westmoreland mansion was surrounded by were some of the most impressive in Manteo. In fact, I had never seen anything like them. It was like the home was in its own mystical geographic location with its own species of plants and trees, all unique and nothing comparable. When we reached the giant Tudor-style mansion, Teddy let out a low whistle.

  “Holy crap.” I thought his eyes would bug out of his face. “So this is what it means to be rich.” He brought the car to a stop in front of the enormous fountain with a giant statue of an eight-legged horse. It was a spectacular piece; the power of the animal was captured perfectly. In fact, I was pretty sure it was Sleipner from Norse mythology.

  “Look at the size of that fountain!” Teddy was gawking.

  I smiled. We literally came from a different world. Teddy’s mom had to work two jobs as a single parent just to keep up with the bills. I knew that was why Teddy worked so hard in school. He wanted to be able to help his mom and give her and his brother a better life. And, well, my life was pretty much the same, but at least my parents were still married, so my mom could rely on my dad. Teddy’s mother had no one to rely on except him. She was lucky he understood and didn’t mind the challenge.

  “It actually is pretty amazing,” I said quietly as I unfastened my seat belt and stepped out of the car.

  “Uh. Yeah. You could say that. I don’t think I need to make sure my car is locked out here.”

  I would have laughed if I wasn’t so nervous. My heart was going a mile a minute, as I searched the grounds for any signs of Devilyn. I didn’t see his car in the driveway and hoped that he hadn’t forgotten that we were coming over. It was cool out, but I knew I’d start sweating soon from the anticipation.

  “Should we ring the doorbell?” Teddy asked, clearly wanting to follow my lead.

  “I guess.”

  We walked up to the massive wooden doors and stared up at the intricate carvings. I was surprised I hadn’t noticed them before. They were Celtic patterns combined with ancient-looking writing that covered the entire length of both doors, which were at least ten feet tall.

  “It looks Celtic, doesn’t it?” I asked out loud as I traced the words and patterns with my fingers. They were incredible.

  “I think so. I’ve never seen anything like this before. It must have cost a fortune,” Teddy said as he looked around the doors. “I can’t find the doorbell.”

  “I think we’re supposed to use the door knocker.” I picked up the heavy brass piece that was in the mouth of a lion.

  “It’s kind of medieval, isn’t it?”

  “I don’t know, but I like it.” I hit the brass with the knocker. The noise that vibrated throughout the house was deafening and literally shook us to the core. Teddy and I nearly fell backwards.

  “Holy cow. That thing is not normal! It’s like a gong!”

  Before I could respond, the door was suddenly opened by Devilyn’s grandfather. He had the kind of presence that made you just want to stare. He was tall and commanding, and his bright blue gaze was the most piercing I’d ever encountered. He gave both Teddy and me a big smile. It was obvious he was feeling better than he was when school ended last year. Whatever crisis Devilyn had faced with him must be over. I was happy to see him healthy. I had never forgotten his kindness, and I genuinely liked him.

  “Welcome!” His voice boomed as he pulled me into an embrace. I was too taken aback by
the gesture to reciprocate.

  When he let go, he reached out and shook Teddy’s hand.

  “So nice to finally meet you, Teddy.” Teddy was wide-eyed. I knew he had to be overwhelmed. The man was a lot to take in.

  “And how’s your little dog Famous doing, Caroline?”

  Had I told his grandfather about Famous? I didn’t remember, but I was touched he asked.

  “He’s great. Thank you for asking,” I replied with a warm smile.

  “I’m glad to hear it,” he said as he ushered us into his home. I looked over at Teddy as he stared around at the opulent estate, knowing it would be awhile before he’d be able to close his mouth from the shock of it all. The home had quintessential old-world charm, designed with dark oaks, intricate carvings, grand staircase and all. Enormous Persian rugs covered the expansive floors; antiques that must have cost as much as my parents’ home were placed elegantly around the large foyer as testament to their vast wealth. It was like something out of a dream.

  “Have you eaten?” Odin asked politely.

  Teddy could only shake his head.

  “Thank you, but I already had breakfast,” I replied.

  “Nonsense. Breakfast was hours ago,” he said as he clapped his hands. “I’ll have some lunch prepared.”

  “You don’t have to do that,” I rushed out. “We’re fine, really. Please, you don’t have to go to all that trouble.”

  “My darling Caroline, food is one of life’s precious enjoyments. One must never miss out on any meal.” He smiled. “I believe you will find Devilyn in the library. Do you remember your way?”

  “Yes, thank you. Down that hall, right?”

  “Exactly. You two go on and find him while I see to it that lunch is prepared for the three of you.” He left Teddy and me in the foyer and made his way down another arched hallway. Teddy was still staring, only now his attention was focused upward at a huge crystal and iron antique chandelier. He was so mesmerized that I had to grab hold of his hand and pull him along to keep him from standing there forever.

  “You’re going to have to speak soon, you know. And for God’s sake close your mouth.”

  It took him a moment to respond. “For the first time in my life, I’m utterly speechless.”

  I remembered feeling the same way when I came to the home last year, so I stayed quiet and let him continue taking everything in as we made our way down the hall. I could feel the familiar buildup of excitement when I realized I was about to see Devilyn again. I ran a quick hand through my hair before we entered the study, and my heart skipped a beat. His long, muscular arms were crossed, and he was staring out the windows onto their extensive property.

  He was so gorgeous. He had on blue jeans that sat low on his waist and a black T-shirt that he wore well. His profile was perfect, I thought dreamily. Just perfect.

  “Hi, Devilyn,” I said quietly when he didn’t immediately turn to face us. He looked first at Teddy and smiled, then slowly moved his gaze over to me. His look was guarded, but I saw him quickly check me out. I silently cursed myself for not wearing something different. But then he smiled in approval, almost sensing my hesitation, which took all my insecurities away. Oh, how I wished I knew what was running through his head.

  “Caroline. Teddy. Thanks for coming over.” He stepped forward.

  “Hey, man,” Teddy said as he placed his backpack on the ground. “You have an incredible place.”

  “Thanks. Glad you guys could make it.”

  I stood awkwardly in the center of the room and looked at Devilyn. Teddy sat down on the large plush-looking leather couch and proceeded to make himself at home. He was able to shed his awkwardness quickly. I wished I had that ease.

  “Thanks again for letting us practice here,” Teddy said. “You’ve definitely got more space here than at my house. In fact, I’m pretty sure my entire place can fit in that foyer.”

  Devilyn looked embarrassed.

  “Yeah, well, it’s a home.”

  “Embrace it. I would,” Teddy said with a smile as he raised his hand. I looked over at my friend and shook my head at his audacity. But then he never really had a filter and usually said whatever was on his mind. One of the many reasons why everyone loved him at school.

  “Should we just get started?” Teddy asked as he unzipped his backpack and pulled out the photocopied pages of our drama assignment. I nodded quietly and grabbed my pages from him.

  Teddy held out a packet for Devilyn.

  “I made you a copy, too.”

  “Thanks, Teddy, but I don’t think I need it. I memorized my lines already.”

  Well, great. Now he even had the lines memorized. Could the situation be any more embarrassing? I wasn’t sure how much more I could take.

  “Impressive,” Teddy offered, his eyebrows raised.

  “I have a decent memory,” Devilyn explained quietly as I looked at him in surprise.

  “I’ll say.”

  “So I guess we should just get this going,” said Devilyn. He looked over at me.

  “Are you ready to begin, Juliet?”

  My heart slammed in my chest.

  If only I were his Juliet.

  D

  She was a gift from heaven, just like the character she was about to pretend to be. I examined her carefully, noting each move she made from the moment she entered my grandfather’s library.

  She was stunning.

  She looked more beautiful each time I saw her, which made the pain of it even harder to bear.

  The thought of anything ever happening to her was unbearable. But the more time she spent in my life, the more and more inevitable the unbearable would become. Ever since she had entered my world, my sole purpose had been to shield her from the devils of the dark. My life’s journey had changed so much and had become increasingly challenging. There were so many obstacles before me. How could I possibly overcome them all and prevail in the end? Everywhere I turned, I faced enemies who wished nothing less than a battle. With every war, there would ultimately be bloodshed.

  Death and destruction defined war.

  How could it be avoided?

  And now I lived under Odin’s roof, with a man who simply chose to ignore life’s simple truths and in doing so created many hurdles, like welcoming my sister back into his home without hesitation and with arms wide open. How could he ever expect that I could trust her again when she so foolishly betrayed me?

  I was happy I hadn’t seen her yet, as Odin knew that it would be wise to keep her away, at least for now. I knew that when I did finally come face-to-face with her it wouldn’t be pretty. All the love I had felt for her was now gone, and in its place, emptiness.

  There is no greater pain than betrayal, especially when it comes from the least expected place. The wounds she left behind would never heal. But she would never know that.

  For the sake of Odin, I would play along. Acting the part would become easier, and just as I was now about to play the role of the Romeo, the role of dutiful son and brother would be just as easy. Every scene in my newfound life was ultimately an act.

  Except the feelings I couldn’t shake for Caroline.

  I stood before her, ready to recite the words of lust and passion, and knew that I needed to acknowledge, at least internally, that these words would have a deeper meaning to me. My obsession with Caroline was the only thing in my life that was real.

  She looked shyly away, and I couldn’t stop the feeling of pleasure I got from knowing how affected she was by my words. Because it did please me. Even though I knew I couldn’t have her, there was a part of me that wanted her to want me as badly as I wanted her. I craved her desire, however wrong it was. At least now I could admit that to myself.

  “Um, yeah. I guess I am,” she said quietly as Teddy curiously watched the two of us. I knew he was analyzing my every move. I saw him do it in drama, later at lunch, and even now. He was her protector, wanting to make sure his friend wouldn’t get hurt by someone like me, which made my respect
for him grow even more.

  “How do you want this to play out?” she asked innocently.

  Let me count the ways, I thought.

  “I was thinking we could just read the lines back to each other? Just practice casually. No pressure. No blocking. Just to get comfortable with each other.”

  The tension between us was palpable. I didn’t know if we would ever be comfortable in the same room. There would always be so much there.

  “Um, sure,” she said after a moment.

  Caroline had a death grip on the pages as she walked over to one of the large winged leather chairs Odin loved. She sat down in the giant chair and looked completely lost in it. But perfect. She crossed her legs then politely looked up at me.

  “I guess you have to start.”

  “Right.” I looked away and cursed the Fates for the thousandth time before I turned to capture her gaze.

  “But soft! What light through yonder window breaks? It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.”

  As she was my sun.

  I recited the entire verse with the conviction of my love for her. When I was finished, Caroline was staring at me with a faraway look in her eyes. My passion had touched her, I know, the same way it shook me to my core.

  “It’s your turn, Caroline,” Teddy reminded her with an awkward cough, making her fidget with embarrassment as she looked down at her pages. I had to look away from her so she wouldn’t see my smile.

  “Right,” she mumbled as she looked for her lines. She was no theater actress, but the innocence when she read rang true and was thoroughly appealing, more than any experienced performer.

  We continued to run lines, and I surprisingly found myself enjoying the moment. I understood why Caroline liked Teddy’s company so much. He was very entertaining and was constantly cracking jokes. After an hour or so had passed, Odin knocked on the door and stepped in with two of his household staff. They followed behind him carrying trays filled with food and quickly placed them on a table in the room.

  Teddy’s look of awe made me smile.

  “Hungry?”

  “Dude, I am always hungry.”

  “Chicken schnitzel and steak sandwiches. And some sides—looks like a faro risotto, creamed corn, steak fries, Yorkshire pudding, and peas. They’ve also made an arugula, pomegranate, and goat cheese salad in case you’re feeling up for greens,” Odin said happily, examining all the dishes.