The War King

by Jeana E. Mann

  “Okay.” She blinked at my abrupt tone and drew her bottom lip between her teeth. The waitress arrived to take our orders for the meal. Everly waited for the girl to leave before launching a direct attack. “Alright. What’s up? Why are you acting so weird?”

  Between the two of us, Everly had always been more forthcoming than me. I preferred to linger in the shadows, keeping my heart guarded and safe, while Everly flitted through the light, her wishes and dreams available for anyone to see. I knew when she’d gotten her first period, the first time she’d kissed a boy, to whom she’d lost her virginity. When had all that changed and why had I missed it?

  I glanced up to find her watching me with narrowed eyes. “I’m just a little frazzled. I’ve got a lot going on right now, you know?” To cover my awkwardness, I took a drink of water from the crystal goblet.

  “I’ll give you that.” The creamy skin on her forehead wrinkled. “How is Roman? Are you guys talking yet?”

  “He’s fine. And yes, we’re talking.” The genuine concern in her voice brought a lump to my throat.

  “Oh, sweetie, that’s good, right? At least you’ve opened up communications.” She reached across the table to place her hand on top of mine. I withdrew my hand and dropped it in my lap. Her eyebrows drew together.

  “We still have a lot of ground to cover before he comes back home.” I lifted my chin and tried not to think about the photos of her talking to Lavender. “The police searched our penthouse yesterday.” From beneath my lashes, I watched for her reaction.

  The color drained from her face. “That’s terrible.”

  “It made me sick. You should have seen the way they tore the place apart. They dumped all the drawers on the floor, rooted through my lingerie, everything we own.”

  She rolled her lips together and looked away. “What were they looking for?”

  “Anything to tie Roman to Lavender’s murder. They’re desperate to indict him. He says it’s just a scare tactic, but I find it hard to believe a judge would issue a warrant without probable cause.”

  “But he’ll get out of it, right?” She’d been about to take a sip of wine but lowered the glass back to the table. “A man like Roman has to have a dozen attorneys to protect him, and he’s not guilty, there’s that.” Her voice trailed away, like she was trying to convince herself. “I’m sure it’ll all blow over in a few days.”

  “This isn’t going away.” I bit the inside of my cheek, pausing to choose my words carefully. “Someone has already tried to assassinate him. They beat up his face. Now they’re trying to pin a murder on him. If anything, the situation is escalating. He says it’s an attempt to get him under control.”

  “Oh.” She exhaled, the sound gusting between us. Her hand trembled as she lifted her wine glass. The telltale sign added to my confusion. Was she frightened or nervous?

  “If anything happens to him, I don’t know what I’ll do.” Tears pricked the backs of my eyelids. I blinked them away. “I can’t let that happen, Everly.”

  A waiter approached to bring our salads. Once he’d left, she picked up a new thread of conversation. “Does Roman know about the baby? Did you tell him?”

  “Yes. He’s thrilled.” A flush of heat climbed my throat at the memory of his kisses to my belly and the fierce pride in his eyes.

  “I knew he would be,” she said, her voice unusually thick. “You’re going to have a fairytale family.”

  “I’m sure the baby will enjoy visiting him in prison.” Bitterness oozed from the statement. Why didn’t she say something about her father’s relationship with Lavender and end my misery?

  “Rourke!” Her fork dropped to the plate with a clatter, turning a dozen pairs of eyes in our direction. She lowered her voice and leaned forward. “It’ll never happen. Don’t talk that way.”

  “You don’t know that.” Maybe if I pressed her harder, preyed on her sympathies, she’d come clean. “There aren’t any guarantees.” She stared at the salad in front of her. “I’m happy to be pregnant, but the idea of bringing up a fatherless child breaks my heart.” One of the tears escaped and rolled down my cheek. I swiped it away. Everly’s eyes welled also. I was getting to her. “Do you think your father could help? Maybe he knows someone or could offer some advice?”

  “I doubt it. You know how he feels about using his status for personal gain.” Uncharacteristic anger laced her tone. I’d never heard her speak of him with anything less than the utmost respect. Maybe I’d imagined it? Their father-daughter bond had been unshakable.

  “Did you have a falling out?”

  Before she could answer, the hors d’oeuvres arrived. I watched her from beneath my lashes. If she suspected my dishonesty, she didn’t show it by word or action. I used the silence to shovel three small cucumber sandwiches into my mouth. Even though I’d thrown up twice an hour earlier, I was now famished. Roman had held my hair and washed my face with a cool cloth afterward. The memory of his tenderness filled my chest with love.

  “Let’s just say dear Dad and I had a clash of opinions and leave it at that.” A glower darkened her features.

  “Did he give you crap about Nicky?”

  “No, although he hates Nicky with a passion.” She waved a dismissive hand through the air. “You know Daddy. He thinks I’m still ten. It’s frustrating. I don’t want to talk about it.”

  “At least you still have him around.” Thoughts of my father’s sweet smile and corny jokes carried equal measures of sadness and warmth. “My dad wasn’t perfect either. He bankrupted us twice. Still, I’d give anything to have him around to meet Roman and see our children.”

  “I know. You’re right. I should be grateful.” But her tone suggested otherwise. Her face fell. She toyed with the napkin in her lap. “He yelled at me, Rourke. He’s never raised his voice to me—ever.” After a heavy sigh, she shook her head. “I can’t talk about it.”

  “Maybe you’ll feel better if you get it off your chest.” I reached for a fourth sandwich.

  “I see the situation hasn’t dulled your appetite.” A corner of mouth curled up in a teasing smile.

  “Sorry. Do you want some?” I nudged the final sandwich toward her. “They’re very tiny. I could eat four more.”

  “Yes, but I’m afraid you’ll gnaw my arm if I get too close.” We both laughed, easing some of the tension. Even though I was angry with her, the bonds of our friendship tugged at me. They were interwoven tightly into the fabric of my being. I couldn’t imagine life without her, although, I might have to. She shook her head and pushed the plate back across the table. “Go ahead. I can see you’re starving.”

  “Thanks.” I finished the final sandwich and motioned for a waiter. “Could we have some more of these, please?” He bowed and headed in the direction of the kitchen. I used the silence to contemplate my next move. I didn’t want to risk offending her. On the other hand, I needed answers. The waiter returned with a second tray of sandwiches. I nodded to Everly. “Go ahead. I promise not to bite you.”

  “Are you sure?” Her laughter ended abruptly. The pale complexion of her skin transformed from ivory to scarlet. “Oh no. Great. Just great.” Grabbing her wine goblet, she drained it to the bottom and motioned for the waiter to refill the glass.

  “What?” I followed her gaze across the room.

  Heads snapped to view the former Vice President. Murmurs of admiration and approval floated through the air. Mr. McElroy caught sight of us and strode in our direction. Nicky and Prince Heinrich trailed behind him.

  It was my turn to flush. “Crap.”

  “I can’t do this. I’m going to the ladies.” She shoved her chair back with such force that it almost fell over. A passing busboy caught it before it hit the floor.

  I grabbed her hand to prevent her escape. “Everly, don’t you dare. You’ve never been a coward. Show Nicky and your father how strong you are.”

  Our eyes met. Torture and pain filled her pretty eyes, followed by a flash of defiance. “You’re right. Screw t
hem both.” She flashed a smile. In a louder voice, she said, “Excuse me. I’m so sorry. I thought I saw a spider.” By now, the men had reached the table.

  “You’ve always been terrified of bugs. Hello, dear.” Mr. McElroy bent to kiss her cheek. She stiffened visibly. He straightened. “Some things never change.”

  “No, they don’t,” she replied. Tension laced her words. A tight line of annoyance crossed her lips.

  “Rourke, a pleasure, as always.” He placed a hand on my shoulder and squeezed. Once, I’d been thrilled by his attentions, but today, his touch sent a shiver down my back. “Let me introduce you to my colleagues. Prince Heinrich, this is Rourke Menshikov. Rourke, this is the Crown Prince of Androvia. And you know Nicky, of course.”

  “It’s an honor to meet you,” Henry said in his posh British accent. I extended a hand, unsure if I should bow or curtsey or remain seated. He clasped my fingers between his palms and studied me with the most intense pair of eyes I’d ever seen. Heat raced into my cheeks at the memory of that same gaze watching me have sex with Roman at the Devil’s Playground NYC. “Menshikov? Are you related to Roman?” He flicked a curious glance in Nicky’s direction. I waited for him to connect the dots, but his expression remained polite and unrevealing.

  “They’re married,” Nicky replied, not bothering to hide his disapproval.

  “I wasn’t aware Roman had a wife,” Henry said.

  Nicky snorted. “Where have you been? Under a rock?” I shot him a look of censure, intending to incinerate him with my gaze. He cleared his throat and glanced away, guilt shadowing his eyes.

  The prince withdrew his grasp from mine and turned his attention to Everly. “And who is this lovely young lady?”

  “This is my daughter, Everly.” Mr. McElroy’s jaw ticked, his gaze bouncing between Everly and the prince.

  “Ah, yes, the delightful Ms. McElroy. I’ve heard so much about you.” Henry took her hand in his and bent low to kiss her knuckles. “You’re even lovelier than your reputation.”

  I didn’t like the way his cunning gaze roved over her face or the way his thumb brushed along the back of her hand. She’d been at the Devil’s Playground NYC on the same night as Heinrich. He’d seen her there, but she hadn’t noticed. She’d been too busy getting debauched by Nicky at the time.

  “Good afternoon, Everly,” Nicky said, looking at me and not her.

  She winced at the snub, a movement imperceptible to anyone but me.

  I corralled my irritation but couldn’t hide my scowl. After our little talk, he could at least try to be civil to her. A five-star restaurant, however, wasn’t the place to singe Nicky’s ears. Later, when I had him alone, I’d unload my wrath on him. I shook my head, enough to warn him about my displeasure. He swallowed. Understanding dawned in his eyes.

  “What brings you to New York, Prince Heinrich?” Everly turned a flirtatious smile to the prince. Sexual attraction crackled between His Royal Highness and my best friend. “I’m disappointed our paths haven’t crossed sooner.”

  “Business with your father brought me into the city, but I have a house here, as well. Two, actually.” He glanced up at the ceiling and frowned. After a second, he shrugged and smiled, bringing to life the deep dimples beside his mouth. He continued to stroke her hand with his thumb. “I can’t keep track anymore.”

  “That’s a terrible problem to have.” Her smile widened into genuine amusement.

  “Perhaps you’d like to visit sometime. I’m thinking of throwing a dinner party before I head back to Androvia for the summer.”

  “I’d like that.” They beamed at each other, an overwhelming portrait of good genetics and beauty.

  Mr. McElroy cleared his throat, stepping between the prince and Everly, forcing him to release his hold on her. “I didn’t mean to intrude on your lunch, my dears. I just wanted to stop by and say hello.”

  “It’s good to see you again,” I said, almost choking on the untruth. My brain scrambled, desperate to gain a foothold on the mountain of his treachery. “Before you go, do you think you could set aside some to speak with me later? I could use your advice.” Maybe I could learn something of use to Roman if we had a moment alone.

  Chapter 19

  Rourke

  Mr. McElroy’s eyes, so like Everly’s, flickered with interest. “My door is always open for you, Rourke. Call my assistant. He’ll put you on my schedule.” He shuttered the predatory gleam and nodded to his companions. “Well, we won’t take up any more of your time. It was good to see you, girls. Gentleman, shall we?” Taking control of his guests, he gestured toward the hostess waiting patiently to seat them.

  “It’s been an honor to meet you both.” Prince Heinrich bowed gracefully, his gaze filled with open admiration for Everly. “I look forward to getting better acquainted, Ms. McElroy.”

  “Go ahead. I’ll catch up to you,” Nicky said to his companions. “I need to speak with the ladies for just a minute.”

  “I was just going to the powder room.” Everly tried to leave her seat, but Nicky dropped a hand to the back of her chair, halting her escape. She groaned and shook her head, anger punctuating her words. “I have nothing to say to you, asshole.”

  “I deserve that.” His fingers flicked over the knot of his tie. “Please wait. One minute. That’s all I ask.” Reluctantly, she slid back onto the plush, red velvet seat.

  “If you’re going to spew out more bullshit, I’m not interested either,” I grumbled through gritted teeth.

  “Not everything is about you, Mrs. Menshikov.” Disdain dripped from his voice. He faced Everly, took her hand, and squeezed it between his palms. “I want to apologize for my behavior toward you. It was inexcusable. I treated you badly, and I’m ashamed. If I led you on, I’m sorry. I hope you won’t see my actions as a reflection on your value as a person. You’re kind, beautiful, and deserve much more than I could ever give. We both know I’m not the sort of man you want in your life. I hope we can start over and be friends.”

  Everly and I stared at him, our mouths agape. I’d never seen him contrite before. Sincerity reinforced his words. I blinked, certain this had to be another one of his schemes.

  “I—I—don’t know what to say.” Disbelief clouded her eyes. She glanced at me.

  I lifted my eyebrows and shook my head, totally bewildered.

  He flashed his mega-watt smile. “We’re going to run into each other from time to time. I don’t want you to be uncomfortable because I’m a dick. Say you forgive me, and let’s move on.”

  “I can live with that,” she said.

  This example of her loving nature knotted my insides with indecision. I swallowed and glanced down at my lap. Had I become too jaded?

  “Thank you.” Nicky’s attention returned to me, expression stiffening. I squared my shoulders and prepared for verbal battle. “I hear you’re back with Roman. You just don’t listen, do you?”

  “Unfortunately for you, your credibility is shit with me.” I kept my voice pleasant but edged my words with steel. “Nothing you say will ever convince me to leave him. New information has swayed my opinion of Roman’s situation.”

  “What do you know?” Nicky placed both hands on the table and bent low enough to keep his words for my ears only. “You’ll give me answers.”

  I stood abruptly, mimicking his pose, meeting his gray eyes with equal intensity. “I’ll give you nothing, Mr. Tarnovsky. In case you’ve forgotten our last conversation, I meant every word of what I said.” He blinked and straightened but didn’t look away. I leaned forward. “Don’t push me.”

  “Is everything okay, Mrs. Menshikov?” The maître d’ hovered at my elbow. Curious stares burned into my backside. I didn’t give a fuck what the other patrons thought. Nicky had toyed with my head for the last time.

  “It’s alright, Franky. Family squabbles. Mrs. Menshikov and I love to spar.” Nicky lifted both hands in the air, his stare still locked with mine. “I was just leaving.” He retreated to Mr. McElroy’s table on
the opposite side of the room, his strides confident, posture straight and proud.

  I turned to the maître d’. “Next time, I’d like a more private table. Do you think you could help me with that, Franky? I’d really appreciate it.” The judgmental stares of strangers were beginning to wear on my nerves.

  “I’m so sorry, Mrs. Menshikov.” He brushed imaginary bread crumbs from the pristine table linen and snapped his fingers for a waiter to assist me with my chair. “I apologize for the oversight. I had no idea you were joining Ms. McElroy this afternoon, or I would’ve seen to it. I can assure you it won’t happen again. Would you like to move now?”

  “We’re fine for today.” His statement finally registered in my overtaxed brain. “My husband has private tables here?”

  “Yes, madam. He owns the restaurant.”

  Everly tittered from behind her napkin. “Of course he does,” she said. I shot her a warning glare. She bit her lower lip but couldn’t hide her grin. “Roman Menshikov is everywhere.”

  Roman might enjoy all the fussing, but I’d never get used to it. Sometimes I longed for the days of anonymity when I could grab a hamburger in a fast food chain without four security guards and a crowd of onlookers. However, if I had the power at my fingertips, I might as well make use of it. “We don’t need special treatment, Franky. Just privacy.”

  “No worries, madam. It’s a pleasure serving you.” Taking a cue from my raised eyebrows, he backed away. I exhaled in relief as he turned to greet a newly arrived pair of patrons.

  “So many crazy things just happened there that I don’t even know how to begin processing them,” Everly said.

  “You and me both.”

  “Do you think Nicky really meant what he said?”

  “Who knows.” He stared at us from across the room. Traitor, I mouthed to him. One corner of his mouth curled up. “He’s like a bad little schoolboy who never learns his lesson.”