Free Runaway Heart by Scarlet Day Page B

sha-lia , Princess Karinna of Montore.” Jaren’s face was lit with a combination of pride, happiness, and love. Kari felt his emotions flow through their new bond, and her heart seemed to swell with her love for him.
    “Princess Karinna, we are most happy to welcome you to our family.” Jaren’s father looked very much like Jaren, except for the white streaks in his hair and the lines in his face.
    “It is my honor, Your Majesty.” Kari curtseyed as best she could while Jaren still had his arm around her waist. “And please, call me Kari.”
    The king grinned at Kari, and she suddenly knew where Jaren got the grin she so loved. “I’ll make you a deal, my dear. I’ll call you Kari if you will call me ‘Father’ and cut out the curtseying.”
    Kari grinned and blushed. “Deal.”
    Jaren’s brothers came forward and she was introduced to Maxson, the third brother, and Macen, the youngest brother. The next introduction was Marinda, a beautiful young woman that Kari guessed was about her age, with silky black hair flowing down to her waist and sparkling blue eyes.
    Marinda rushed forward and took both of Kari’s hands in hers. “I am so glad I finally have a sister! Do you have any idea how frustrating it is growing up with four overprotective older brothers?”
    Kari laughed at her exasperated expression. “Actually, I do.”
    Marinda beamed at her and turned her attention to her parents. “I like her. We’re definitely keeping her.”

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Chapter Eleven
     
    Jaren sat in his father’s study after giving him all the details of their trip. The great stone fireplace had been lit to keep the evening chill at bay, and Jaren tossed another log into the flames. His father had agreed completely that Jaren had made the right decision in bringing his sha-lia home. There was simply no other alternative.
    “Your coronation will be tomorrow night.” Jaren was momentarily stunned at his father’s announcement and tore his gaze away from the bright flames to stare at his father. He started to protest, but King Tibon interrupted him. “I will not be persuaded to change my mind, son. Now that you have found your sha-lia , you are ready. Besides, there may be a fight coming over your mate. The difference between you and Karinna being a prince and princess or being a king and queen could be crucial.”
    “How can I be sure I am ready?” Jaren had been trained for this all his life, but he was still young. Traditionally, most princes were well into their second century before they assumed the throne.
    “You were born ready, Jaren. Besides, you need to take the throne while I am still capable of supporting you.” Jaren understood the importance of his people’s tradition of a new king taking the throne prior to the death of the previous king. It eliminated challenges to the succession of the throne from other power-hungry houses following a king’s death, something that was common in ancient times. Jaren was certain that his Uncle Odair would be the first to make that challenge.
    The weight of his father’s decision began to settle upon Jaren’s shoulders. Jaren bowed to his father. “I do understand, Father. I hope I will be able to make you proud. And,” Jaren hesitated, “I am sorry that I have brought a potential war to Aldryss, but I cannot let her go.”
    “Of course not! Our people understand the importance of a sha-lia for the royal men. Without one, we tend to get incredibly hard to handle.”
    Jaren knew his father was right. Great power, combined with madness, never boded well for the planet.
     
    * * * *
     
    Kari sat patiently while Marinda worked to pull Kari’s hair up into an intricate style. Marinda had insisted, and Kari liked her so much that she couldn’t refuse. The two had bonded immediately. The coincidence that they were both the only girls in families of four royal—and very domineering—older brothers provided them with an instant connection. Jaren had complained that he hadn’t