Read Online Lake, Ciara - Xihirah [Xihiran Shifters 1] (Siren Publishing Classic) by Ciara Lake - Free Book Online Page A

“I’ll meet with you as soon as we arrive at our rooms.”
    Kael paused, his attention settling on the Minister. “You mean, after Saleeya has fully rested and taken her midday meal,” Kael corrected. “That’s acceptable, isn’t it?” Kael demanded confirmation from Vitalion.
    “Yes, of course, Admoncor Braeden.”
    Saleeya sensed the rising tension from both men’s expressions and their tone of voice. Wisely, she decided to remain silent. To barge into the middle of that testosterone would be a mistake. The tone and atmosphere of the exchange between the two men was disconcerting. She swallowed at the flash of bright amber in Kael’s gaze as it hardened on Vitalion. Fear tightened her throat. She wondered what Vitalion had done in the past that so irritated the Admoncor. She placed her hand on Vitalion’s arm and tightened her grip, sending a plea for him to be silent. They didn’t need nor want any sort of disruption to begin the proceedings.
    Bodies shuffled amid the standoff, and the group’s discomfort seemed apparent to Saleeya. The hints of “human” tones that were previously evident in Kael had vanished. His eyes looked animalistic and feral. Vitalion visibly paled, and Saleeya could see perspiration roll down his face. Wisely, he looked away from Kael’s direct stare. Saleeya recognized Vitalion’s request for her immediate attendance was due to his insecurity and fear regarding the upcoming interactions with the Xihirians. From what she’d been told, Vitalion had previously only dealt with Kael—not his father, the Sovereign. Had something been said or done during those previous meetings that had soured Kael on Vitalion? Saleeya didn’t know, but she knew she needed to find out.
    The son was so overwhelming. Despite Saleeya’s attraction to him, she could clearly see Kael’s difficult demeanor. One could only imagine what his father might be like. Having all of the royal males in attendance might prove to be too much for Vitalion. “Perhaps, Minister, you should rest. We can discuss anything of concern tomorrow rather than trying to squeeze in those discussions before we’re set to meet the Sovereign,” Saleeya suggested, noting the flash of rage that darkened Vitalion’s gaze before it was masked. Another bolt of unease shot through her, and Saleeya glanced over to catch the odd expressions on Mia’s and Jarvin’s faces as they quietly took in the exchange.
    Kael removed himself from the tenuous situation. He waited at the intersection of the main hallway for Saleeya to join him. As soon as she stepped next to him, Kael turned on a pivot to lead the group through the Palace toward the guest suites.
    Saleeya trotted behind him, her breathing ragged. Exhausted, hungry, and thirsty, Saleeya finally stopped. She slipped her hand from his arm and crossed her arms over her chest.
    Kael stopped abruptly and turned to glance at Saleeya. “What’s the…”
    “I’d be delighted to walk with you, Admoncor.” Saleeya shook her head. “As long as we’re walking, not running. You’ve been dragging me through the halls.”
    “Forgive me, Saleeya.” Kael’s expression looked repentant. “You’ve but to ask me to slow down and I shall.”
    “Well, I’d appreciate it if you’d remember I’m not one of your soldiers. And Minister Vitalion seems to be struggling.”
    ”I see.” Kael turned to watch Vitalion’s party slowly struggle to catch up. “You need not worry for that male. He’ll be fine,” Kael replied in a low, slightly irritated tone.
    “I’m merely being courteous. Vitalion’s an older man. Please be more patient,” Saleeya snapped. As Vitalion’s party was still a distance away from them, Kael turned to begin a more relaxed pace toward the west wing of the Palace.
    Torn, Saleeya paused. She glanced from the rest of her party to Kael and back. Finally, she shrugged her shoulders and turned to slowly follow him.
    Kael glanced between her and the others. “What