The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and..

“I know there’s normally a ceremony,” Casteel said,
glancing over at me. “It’s like the one we did in the throne
room of the Temple.” He turned back to Kieran. “We could
do it when we have the larger coronation.”
Kieran nodded. “I would like for my parents and my
sisters to be there.”
Sisters. My smile grew. He was already thinking of his
baby sister.
“As would I,” Casteel said.
He dragged a hand over his head. “I feel like I need a
drink. Or five.”
Casteel chuckled. “I think all of us could use one after
today.” He turned to the credenza where several bottles and
crystal glasses with vines carved into them sat. “What
would you like?” he asked of me.
“Whatever you’re having.”
An eyebrow rose. “Intriguing.”
I shook my head.
“You know,” Kieran said, looking over at me as he sat in
an identical chair, “I’ve never heard of a response like that
to a crowning before. The people are happy. That’s what
they’re celebrating.”
“I imagine they’re relieved that there’ll be no more
tension over how long Cas’s parents have ruled.” I sat back
as Casteel sent me a heated look while pouring three
glasses of something I would probably regret later.
“I think it has more to do with you,” Casteel said.
“Because I’m special.” I rested my chin on my fist and
rolled my eyes. “A unique snowflake.”
He laughed deeply. “Hell, yeah, you are.”
Still not as special as those who could shift forms. I
would never get over that, but the reaction was probably
also in response to the fact that their Prince Ascended—
My eyes widened as I sat up straight. “Oh, my gods. I
just thought of something.”
“Can’t wait to hear this,” Kieran murmured.