Chapter 108: Hear Me

~ DAVID ~

The words were muttered under Fireknight's breath, designed to be too soft for anyone in the room but me to hear. I had stopped abruptly just two strides away.

I could ignore the jab. I could punish him for it. Or…

I turned and closed the space between us. It could be argued that I'd given him permission to speak freely, though I doubt anyone but Stark would have continued in that vein after I'd ended the conversation.

"Is that the last of your concerns?"

"No."

I made myself keep my face blank. "Whatever is on your mind, speak it in this moment, or hold it forever. I may not allow you the opportunity again."

He did not hesitate. "A man who loves a woman will prioritize her health and wellbeing over his own… indulgence," he said with an upper lip curled dangerously close to a sneer. "And a King who loves a woman will hide her from his enemies that would harm her—not point all eyes in her direction."