THE KING'S SUMMON

"Nica, I want to ask you something about Ironin."

When Arthur mentioned it, Veronica looked at him.

"What do you want to talk about?" she inquired.

Arthur arranged thoughts in his head before asking, "When he was around you, did he... look strange to you?"

"Strange?" Veronica was intrigued. "What kind of strange?"

"Any kind."

"I don't think so... I mean, he never talks much and always has a poker face on so that you won't be able to read his mind. He didn't act out of character. Why do you ask?"

"...Nothing, I was just worried."

Arthur sensed that she had no idea about Ironin saving her by making her drink blood. That's why he didn't push it further.

"You worry too much. I'm sure he is all right." Her hand slipped through his parted silk shirt and touched his warm chest. She continued, "Why don't you focus on me?"

Her playful tone made his throat dry. He gulped and gently pinched her chin.