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Aiden rested against the door, trying to calm his racing heart. His sheath throbbed with lust. His whole body reeled from the sensations he was feeling. He stood there a while, sorting through the conflict he felt between wanting his freedom and continuing this . . . whatever this thing him and the King have. Because if he wanted his freedom--which he severally wanted--meant betraying David. And the thought caused his stomach to twist.

He--

"What are you doing here?" a guard asked. It looked like he was passing by when he spotted Aiden standing by himself.

"Um . . . I was just . . ." Aiden stuttered, unsure what to say. The longer it took for him to answer, the more he could see the guard's impatience and suspicion. "I just finished servicing the king."

Something crossed the lion's features--as if he realized something. "That's right . . ." the lion said, a smile growing on his muzzle. "I forgot the king had a certain . . . attraction to males. A hear he's a bit of a slut for cock, especially canines."

Aiden pressed himself against the door, whimpering. He didn't like the look the feline was giving him. He tucked his tail between his legs, and his ears pulled back.

The lion was getting close, very close. He pressed himself to Aiden, and Aiden could smell the lion's musk. "Is that true?"

". . . um . . ." still unable to respond.

"Ah, no matter," the guard said, demising Aiden's response. He looked down at Aiden with a predatory gaze, looking him up and down, his tail lashing behind him. He rested a paw against the fox's arm and a finger crooked under his chin, raising Aiden's averted gaze. "Besides . . . it's not like I could blame him. You're quite a good-looking fox."

Aiden shivered as he felt the lion's hot breath, and not in a good way. The lion gently brushed his claws against his muzzle before pressing his finger pads into his cheek. The guard leaned down and kissed Aiden on his lips. Aiden remained still, but a paw slipped into his trousers and wrapped around his hard cock. He felt betrayed by his own body; he didn't want to have sex with the guard after having such a wonderful time with David--even though they didn't make love. Deep down, he knew he was just still riding from the highs of David's touch and tasty kiss, but his cock wanted--needed_the attention. And he _hated he was about to give it to this random feline instead of the lion he . . . cared for . . .

"You ready for another round," the lion asked. He slowly licked his lips, tail twitching behind him. He gave Aiden such a heated and lustful look that Aiden wanted to tell him to fuck off. But he knew he couldn't do that without raising suspicion or getting himself in trouble. So with a curt nod, he followed the lion back to his room.

For the third time this week, he came back to the servant's corridors late, and to no surprise, Nick was sound asleep again. The otter was usually up, waiting for Aiden to come back. But being up late and then having to get up early must have taken its toll on the small mustelid because he didn't make a sound when Aiden slid under the covers with him. As if by instinct, Nick wrapped himself around Aiden.

The next day was about the same: get up, bath, clean, bath some of the older nobles--and all of them kept grabbing Aiden inappropriately and or were sporting hard erections. And, of course, he had to (help) them dispel such discomfort.

Aiden was in the servant's corridors, rinsing out his muzzle. The last elder, a tiger, left an awful taste on his tongue. He had just sat down for a bowl of broth when one of the servants came up to Aiden and said, "The King requests you to bring him his lunch for the afternoon." And with that turned and left.

Aiden sat there, a spoonful of broth half raised to his muzzle. He wondered if David was requesting his presence for lunch, and the thought made his tail wag. The food with David would be far better than the bland broth he was sipping on.

"What are you wagging your tail for," Nick asked. He sat down right next to Aiden. The otter almost had no sense of boundaries when it came to Aiden--not that he minded. It was nice to see the otter coming out of his shell. He really is a good kid.

Aiden blushed. He knew that David and Nick had lunch together sometimes, but he felt embarrassed about mentioning it to the mustelid. "Oh . . . um, no reason. Just thinking," he murmured.

Nick stared at him for a second or two before nodding. He learned Nick tended to take things at face value. Aiden blew out a breath. He didn't like lying to Nick--and it's not like he didn't trust Nick, he did, but he liked to keep some things private.

He was a little late picking up the king's lunch because Nick had insisted on brushing out his tail quickly, and that quick brush turned into two minutes' worth of brushing. He tried to press that he didn't need it, but he found it hard to say no to Nick's cute face.

With a stern look from the chef, who threatened to chop tail if he were late again, tray in paws made his way to David's chamber. Once there, he quickly preened his cheeks and fluffed out his tail to make himself presentable. He started to reach for the door handle, but he remembered his manners and wrapped it on the door. But there was no reply, so he did it again and waited, ears perked and still no answer.

He opened the door a crack and stuck his muzzle inside. "My lord?" he called out. "David?" It didn't sound or smell like the feline was there. He walked inside, and sure enough, the handsome lion was not in sight. Had I gotten the room wrong? he wondered. He was sure David would be dining in his chamber.

He set the tray down on the table Davis used as a desk. On it was a couple of pieces of parchment with some writing on them. It looked like plans to renovate one of the empty chambers a little way down from David's--essentially to turn it into a small living corridor. Aiden quickly glanced at the door before skimming through the stack of papers. He had to find some information to give to his master. His master was displeased with the bit of info he had given him last week. Most of it was just personal notes he had jotted down, but then he came across the drawing David had done of the fox. Aiden couldn't help but smile. The king had drawn a rather fetching picture of him. A lot of time and effort went into sketching his natural markings and features. He--

Just as he was about to put the drawing down, a piece of parchment caught his eye. There, buried under the miscellaneous pages, was a map of the kingdom and the neighboring kingdom. That was Fenlic, with some notes scribbled next to it. The first was Lord Ashton's name, circled, and next to it was the word plan and a question mark. The next word made his heart freeze and his fur stand on end. It was the word spy with the word canine written next to it. Did he suspect it was him?

He was about to read the other notes when he heard the chamber door open with David and Cedric's voices from the other side.

" . . . my Lord, I believe we still need to discuss this," the stag said.

"Cedric," David sighed. "I'm tired of discussing this. Another time, please."

Aiden quickly scrambled to cover the papers back up, leaving them as they were. He (placed) the tray down as David walked in. David froze before relaxing. Aiden bowed his head low before saying, "Your meal is ready, my Lord."

David simply said, "Good," before resting heavily in his chair with a sigh. He did look exhausted, but Aiden dared not ask. He didn't look to be in the mood to discuss his day.

Aiden quickly served the king his food and poured him a goblet of wine.

"Thank you," he said, taking a sip of wine and looking over a piece of parchment in his paw. "You may leave." He didn't even look up to Aiden. That hurt him a little, so he stood there a little confused, pitcher of wine still in his paws. He didn't know why it hurt him so much for the king to dismiss him. His long years of being a slave forced him to be used to it. He was used to being treated like he was less. But with David, the indifference of his dismissal hurt the most.

"My lord?" he asked. Was he angry we didn't make love last night? Aiden wondered. Maybe he overstepped his boundaries by asking about David's late wife.

"I said you may--" David snapped until he saw Aiden's hurt and teary expression. He sighed loudly before resting a paw on Aiden's arm. "I'm sorry, love," he said. His whiskers drooped slightly, and his ears folded back. "I did not have a pleasant morning and did not mean to take it out on you."

Unsure what to do, Aiden sat down in the chair adjacent to David. "Do you want to talk about it?" he asked.

David shook his head. "I'd . . . rather not."

The air between them was thick with silence, making Aiden uncomfortable. He tried to think of something to liven David's dreary mood. He asked the only thing he could think. "Do you want to fuck me?"

That caused David to smile, even if just a little. "Trust me," he chuckled lightly, "Nothing would please me more than to be intimate with you. But . . . I simply have too much on my mind to enjoy it right now." He smiled again, but that smile didn't match the haggard look in his eyes.

"Okay . . ." He bowed before starting to take his leave.

"Actually," David called out. "If you want to make me happy, why don't you take the food and share it with Nick. I'm sure this would be far better than what Lord Vasely has served you."

"Are you sure," Aiden asked.

"Yes. I have too much to do and sort of lost my appetite."

Aiden bowed. "Yes, my Lord." He started to collect the food before David beckoned him over, which he did, leaning his muzzle down.

David reached up and gave Aiden a lite kiss on the lips. "Thank you," he said, holding the kiss for a couple of seconds before returning to the documents in his paw.

Aiden's lips tingled, and his heart raced--it always did anytime he had contact with the feline. He finished filling the tray before taking his leave. As he walked back to the servant's quarters, his mind turned. He was a little off-put by how the king dismissed him the first time but understood--at least a little bit. David did look tired. I wonder what happened this afternoon to cause him to be like this. He quickly made mental not to eavesdrop on the council's conversation next time. Maybe he could discover something that would please his master--

Again the knot in his stomach made itself present whenever he thought about what his actions will cause. Was his freedom really worth betraying David? He decided at the very beginning of this mission that he would do whatever it takes to earn his freedom . . .

Whatever it takes to earn my freedom,_echoed in his head. At that, his stomach lurched, and his paws shook. He had to rest against a wall to steady and calm himself. He _hated this violent reaction he felt every time he thought about how this will affect David. He knew this wouldn't end well for David . . . or him.

He felt like a tight string was pulling him: his desire for freedom and this . . . the papule feeling he harbored for the king.

It was a tight string already being pulled taut, like with just a single flick, he'd be torn in two. But he didn't have the luxury of stressing over it. Whatever his fate was, he had to survive. No matter what it took. . . .

Nick was thankful for the food, of which he ate a good portion. Unfortunately, Lord Vasely gave both of them a brutal lashing for "stealing" royal food. Aiden took his beating without complaint. He was quite used to such treatment--and he was sure Nick was too. Aiden could handle it, but it broke him to see it happen to the young otter. And as they lay in bed later that night, he couldn't help but hold Nickolas tighter as the boy sniffled against him.

Aiden stroked Nick's cheek, comforting him. "Nick," he asked.

But he got to respond, only more sniffles, so he asked again, "Nickolas."

Nick looked up, his eyes red and his nose crusted. "Yes."

"What would to do if you were free?" he asked.

Nick didn't reply, only burring his face into Aiden's chest fur. He shuttered before looking up. "I don't know. This is all I've known for a long time."

"Okay," Aiden said, staring into space.

"Why?" Nick asked.

"Just curious."

"I can't," Nick started to say.

"Hmm?" Aiden looked down at Nickolas.

But the otter didn't look back up. "I can't think about what it'd be like to be free. It hurts too much to think about freedom, especially when I know it will never happen."

Aiden clung tightly to the mustelid. He certainly knew and understood that. His own freedom was there, dangling above his head, just out of grasp. "I'm sorry," he said. "If I could, I'd take you away from this place."

Over the short time he's spent here, he had grown extremely close to Nick. He felt a kinship with him. Maybe . . . perhaps after he earns his freedom, he could find a way to buy out the boy's contract. Realistically he knew it wouldn't happen, depending on what happened to him. He wondered what his master would do with him after serving his usefulness. Probably either have him killed or force him to go back to selling his body to vile men. His master did promise him his freedom after this mission, but he had his doubts. He desperately wanted to be free again.

Ah . . . these thoughts would be better for another day; right now, he just wanted to sleep. So, he put thoughts of freedom in the back of his mind so he could concentrate on falling asleep. He pulled Nick close and listened to him breathe, already sound asleep. Poor kid probably learned to fall asleep quickly, anything to escape from his life. If only Aiden could fall asleep that fast . . .

The next two days were a bustle with activity. Apparently, important nobles were coming to the castle, so everyone was busy tidying up and making the castle presentable. Aiden was so busy; he only saw Nick in passing or when they were able to have lunch together. Even David has been busy, but the lion did say once everything settled, they'd have another night to themselves. Aiden hoped so.

While everyone was distracted with their tasks, and guards were surprisingly sparse, it gave him a chance to sneak around and find more info he could provide to his master. He checked a few of the noble's rooms to find anything substantial. While some documents looked intriguing, they didn't seem important enough to relay back to his master. Most of it was boring contracts and dealings. With a sigh, he put everything back where it was and left the room. That was the last noble that stayed here, and none of the information he found bared any valuable fruit. Maybe he could try searching one of the king's general's rooms, but even that would be risky. Though he could pass off a semi-reasonable lie as to why he was in one of the noble's rooms, the generals were strictly off-limits.

He was about the back to the servant's quarters for his usual lunch with the otter when hushed whispers caught his attention. Slowly and quietly, he slunk toward the sound. Around the corner was one of the king's generals: a large bear had a grizzly-looking face. He was whispering to one of his colleagues. "The king has gone mad!" he hissed. "He lets his cock think for him instead of his head!"

Aiden's ears fold back, and his tail curled between his legs. He hated he was the cause of David's troubles. He had noticed the king was a little more distracted with him around, no matter how he tried to hide it.

The tall feline towered over the bear. "What do you suggest? We over-through the king?" he growled.

The bear stumbled back a bit, flustered. "N-no . . . of course not!" he stuttered. "I suggest we deal with this fox until the matter with Lord Ashton is resolved." He squared his shoulder and tried to compose himself. Despite being a bear, he obviously was intimated by the tiger.

The tiger nodded before sighing loudly. "Again, I ask, what do you propose? Kidnap the king's plaything? We both know that won't end well for us. He'd have as both by the tail." He sighed again and rubbed a paw against his eyes in frustration. "I agree this is a problem, but I don't see how to get around this without displeasing our lord. Figure out what needs to be done, and I'll sign on it." And with that, the tiger turned around and walked away.

The bear scowled at the ground before following suit.

Aiden rested his back against the stone wall and let out a breath. He had a lot to think about. The longer he stayed here, the more he realized his and David's fates were connected, and the more his resolve began to waver. He questioned if he could really betray David. Is his freedom worth all this turmoil he was causing? Unfortunately, he didn't have the answer. He wanted to be free more than anything, but he also didn't want to hurt David in the process. One thing he did know, whatever the outcome was, he'd lose either way.

Aiden stayed where he was for a minute or two, letting his mind go blank, before pushing himself off the wall and heading back down to the main hall. Without realizing it, he found himself in front of David's door. He must have subconsciously traversed the halls until he was outside David's bed-chamber. His paw started to reach for the handle before it stopped. What was even the point of him coming here? What was he expecting to find? Selfishly he hoped he'd discover David inside, naked on the bed, ready to get plowed by the fox or for him to get plowed by the king. Realistically, though, he hoped to find something--_anything--_he could give to his master. He pushed through his doubts and opened the door to find the room empty. He stepped inside cautiously and flicked his ears around for any indication someone was somehow inside. But no, there was no one here. He should check the king's desk for any new information but instead was drawn to the king's large soft bed. His paw trailed against the soft sheets as he made his way to the head of the bed. He grabbed one of the pillows and lifted it to his nose, inhaling deeply. It smelled strongly of the lion king. Aiden couldn't help but smile. His scent, like the memories he shared with David, filled him with a feeling he couldn't describe.

He shook his head to clear it of such thoughts about David. He was starting to become complaisant, and he couldn't afford to me. Not with his freedom--and life--on the line. He gave the pillow one more whiff before putting it down with a sigh. He wondered what David was doing right now. He wondered if David was thinking about him as much right now. Focus, Aiden told himself. I wonder if he has an article of clothing or cloth I can have as a keepsake--

A paw quickly grabbed him from behind and spun him around. He was face-to-face with David's guard. He was acutely aware of how close the stag's antlers were to his face. If he wanted, he could gore the fox right now.

"What are you doing here?" The stag did not look too pleased to see him in his master's bed-chamber. "What are you up to?"

"N-nothing . . ." Aiden stuttered.

"Bullshit," the stag said. "You're up to something."

"I swear! I . . . I just wanted to see him . . ." Aiden said at length. He was being honest, too, if not a little too honest.

The stag looked down at him, long and hard, before smiling. "He won't be available for a while, but if you're truly looking for some company, we could have some fun." He stepped closer until he was practically pressed against the fox's smaller frame. He reached behind Aiden, grabbed his rear, and pulled his hips even closer.

Aiden could feel the cervine's groin stir against his. "I-if that's what you wish, my lord." He bowed his head, avoiding the man's uncomfortable gaze.

To Aiden's surprise, the stag let him go and stepped back, regaining the stoic poster again. It was an expression the guard excelled at. He reached and gripped Aiden's muzzle between his fingers and forced him to look into his eyes. "If you do anything to hurt King David, I will personally see to your punishment . . ." he said and looked serious about it.

Aiden averted his gaze again, instead opting to stare at the pillow he had previously been sniffing. "I know . . ." he said. "I don't want to." At that, he looked at the stag because he meant it. He truly didn't want to. How could he? David has shown him nothing but affection and kindness. He couldn't bear the thought of destroying that kindness.

But . . . that would mean relinquish his freedom, and that was something he wanted more than anything. He was chased away from his hometown, barely lived off the scraps people gave him, and has been a slave to his master for years. He's been through too much to give it up now . . . it was a fine line he was walking between the two.

"Fine," the stag said. "Tidy this room while you're here; I'm sure he'll want it to look good in the next couple of days for his . . . guest." His eyes linger on Aiden for the last part. With that, he turned and left the room, closing the door behind him. Was he hinting that David would want him soon?

He sat on the edge of the bed. He blew out a long, shaky breath before placing his face into his paws, shuttering. Everything about him simply felt numb. What was he going to do?

Warm water poured over Aiden's face and then down his back as David poured it over him. He couldn't understand why David insisted they bathe first before anything else. Did he smell offensive to the lion? He didn't think so. Despite his and other slaves living conditions, he did a reasonably good job keeping himself clean. So why take a bath now when they hadn't even made a mess yet? He had to admit, though, it felt nice . . . he couldn't remember the last time he had a _warm_bath. Years probably.

The warm misty air filled his nose when he breathed--the almost hot water soaked through his fur to his skin, chasing away any chill. And the fact he was resting against his lover made the whole thing even better.

Aiden leaned back against the lion and sighed happily. Fuck sex; this is better, he thought to himself. Though, the sex was great too. In here, with David, he could let all his fears and anxiety melt away into the humid night.

"Enjoying yourself," David asked.

Aiden simply kept his eyes close and enjoyed the lion pampering him. "Mmm-hmm," he murmured. The corners of his muzzle lifted into a smile. "Yes. It's been a _long_time since I've enjoyed a warm bath." Not since . . . slowly he opened his eyes and stared at the mirror in front of them, not since he left his family and everything important to him behind. What he wouldn't do to be able to see his family again or his adoptive uncle? He wondered what the rat had been up to all those years . . . ah, it was too late anyway. He couldn't go back, not without putting his family at risk.

David's claws distracted him from his reverie. Those claws ran across his chest gently, parting the fur to get to the skin. They felt great, and Aiden could tell David was trying to avoid stretching him. David worked his paws all over Aiden's front, massaging his sore muscles. Aiden had a grueling and tiresome day before he met up with David, so he apricated the attention the king was giving to him.

Aiden focused on David in the mirror, admiring the pleasant look the lion had on his face. He looked happy and content. When David noticed him watching his reflection, his smile widened even more. A deep, rumbling shook Aiden as David giggled. With his eyes stills locked onto Aiden's through the mirror, he leaned down and kissed the top of Aiden's head. He purred as he nuzzled one of the fox's ears.

Aiden couldn't help but smile at the king's mirth. His lips pulled into a lite smile. He was glad he could share this experience with David. He cared deeply for the feline. And from the looks of it, the lion cared deeply for the fox in question.

With nothing better to do, Aiden leaned back and let the king bath them. When he scooted closer, he felt something hard and warm pressed against his back, just below his tail. The hardness behind him throbbed, and David reached over him, sliding his paws down below Aiden's waist. Teasing finger-pads brushed against this sensitive sheath before stroking along his length to his tip. Since getting in the bath with David, his shaft laid heavily out of his sheath. Yes, they were both hard and ready to go, but there was no urgency to have sex. Aiden wanted it--he really wanted it, but just the touch of the feline was enough. So did David, with how much he was throbbing; there was no rush. They had plenty of time to explore and taste each other's body. Aiden certainly was looking forward to wrapping his lips around the lion's barbed cock.

It wasn't long before they we both out of the bath. They would have stayed in as long as possible, but the water was starting to cool down, and they wanted that satisfaction of a warm bath.

Aiden wrapped a towel around his waist. He stood in front of the mirror in awe at how clean and glossy his coat looked. His fur almost shinned against the candlelight. He turned around and ran his paws against David's toned chest, sliding his paws through the soft fur. This soap did wonders to his fur. It almost had a downy softness to it.

"Impressed," David asked with a smirk.

Aiden could only nod. He was so fixated on David's fur and muscles that he was unable to speak. He leaned forward and pressed his nose into the rose-scented fur.

"Should I have some sent to the servant's corridors for your use, of course . . . or if you'd like, you could always come and bath with me. That way, you'll always have a warm bath instead of a cold one."

Aiden looked away and blushed. "I-I . . . don't know what you say," he mumbled.

"The choice is yours, of course. I won't force it on you," David said. His tail swayed behind him happily. The way David looked at him with such affection made his heart swell.

_ Why . . . why is he treating me like this_, he wondered. W-what makes me so special? He really wished he had the answer. He was just another whore to the king, right? Surely, he did this with other whores he fancied. Aiden tried to push those thoughts to the back of his mind; he had his doubts.

David wrapped a towel around his waist and led Aiden back into his bed-chamber. He picked up Aiden and rested him against the edge of the bed. He held onto Aiden and kissed him tenderly but passionately.

Instinctually Aiden wrapped himself around David and kissed him with more passion, deepening the kiss. He reached between them and started stroking the lion. He wanted every part of him, especially with that cock deep inside.

David gave a breathless laugh and stepped back. "Don't worry. There'll be time for what, later," he said. He stared into Aiden's eyes, brushing a thumb against his lips. "First, let's eat."

As if on cue, Aiden's stomach rumbled in agreement. His ears tipped back in embarrassment. "I guess I am a little hungry," he admitted. With how busy his day had been, he only managed to eat breakfast a couple of hours ago.

David leaned in and kissed Aiden's nose. "Wait here while I get us some food."

Aiden looked at him with confusion, to which David replied, "I'm making a special request, and to be honest, I would love to bring it to you." That explains it. Aiden couldn't figure out why the king would grab his own dinner instead of sending a servant to retrieve it.

Aiden wanted to say, "Fuck dinner, I'd skip that and have you for dessert instead," but simply nodded in agreement.

David gave him one more kiss before leaving the room.

Aiden sighed and fell back onto the bed. He pulled his legs up and crawled into a bed. So many things were going through his head, and he was having a hard time processing it all. He didn't want to think about anything other than making love to King David. He'd rather have his libido think for him right now.

With another sigh, Aiden sat up and stared at the door, awaiting David's arrival. He began preening his drying tail to make himself presentable to pass the time. Though he doubted David would have cared what state his fur was in, he did. He didn't like his fur being in such a mess, and unfortunately, it mostly was with his work line.

He waited five minutes and then ten minutes for David to get back. By then, though, his cock had already retreated back into his sheath. Maybe he could surprise David before he got back. But what could he do? What fantasy could he explore with the lion? His eyes focused on the loose strand of rope on David's desk. Quickly, a vulpine smile formed on his lips.

He got up and inspected the rope. It was a good couple of inches in length and half-inch in width. This was perfect. He tied the two ends together to form a loop and then went back to look for a loose strand of cloth he could blindfold himself with. He got back into the bed when he found a suitable one and quickly got himself ready. With his eyes covered, his paws bound and placed above his head, and a dab of oil under his tail, he was ready. He loosened is bound his paws and rubbed his sheath until the tip peaked before tying them up again.

There was movement outside the door. Just in time, he thought. The door clicked open, and someone stepped inside. That familiar feline scent tickled Aiden's nose. His ears perked up, and he could feel someone staring at him. What was taking David so long to come over, he wondered. Maybe he was just standing there enjoying the treat Aiden had left him. "David?" he called out with a smile. "Ready for dessert already?" He splayed out more to give David a better look at him, wagging his tail.

Again, he was met with silence before David made a "tch" sound and said, "Disgusting . . ."

What . . . ? Something was off. He smelled like David but different, younger. Aiden took off his blindfold, staring at the stranger before him. Quickly, he covered himself with a pillow. "Apologies, my lord," Aiden said, casting his eyes down. "I thought. . ."

"I_was my _father," the young prince sneered. "Father" was said with such seething venom that Aiden couldn't help but look to Prince Erik. The look of absolute disgust and revolt etched into Prince Erik's face and body. It looked like he was shaking with anger.

He just stood there and stared at Aiden. "So," he said with an oddly casual tone. "You're my father's new whore?"

"I--" Aiden stared to say until the young lion quickly cut him off.

"I don't need to hear anything out of your cock-sucking whore mouth!" he shouted. He closed the large gap between himself and Aiden quickly. The scent of anger rolled off him in waves. He looked like he wanted to grab Aiden and cuff him until he was bloody.

Aiden couldn't help but cower from the harsh words--it was like he had just been slapped in the face. With how close Prince Erik stood in front of him, he might as well have. The way he spoke . . . words filled with such hated for people like Aiden and his father. This hatred could only be matched to Lord Ashton. Aiden was repeatedly reminded how much Lord Ashton hated him and his kind. Every time he was in his lord's presence.

He did something odd. He sat down beside Aiden and folded in his lap. He looked so . . . calm; gone was the disgusted look. There was something underneath that calmness, and Aiden didn't like it. It caused the fur on the back of his neck to rise. He sat there, waiting for that cion to flip.

"How's my father in bed?" he asked. Had he heard that right? "Great, right? You could hear the men's moans all the way down the hall. He has a new one almost every month, and after that, well . . . " Prince Erik's voice trailed off. He looked closely at Aiden.

Aiden froze. Time seemed frozen, and his heart barely beat inside his chest.

Prince Erik's paw rose to his face, and Aiden quickly flinched away, expecting to be hit. But that paw only held his muzzle. "Look at me," he said calmly.

Aiden couldn't. He kept his gaze cast down, afraid too.

That paw tightened around his muzzle. "I said, look at me."

At that, he did. The young lord had a smile on his muzzle. A smile Aiden was all too familiar with it. It was a smile master gave him every time he was about to do something horrible to him. He wore that smile when he took a blade to the fox's neither.

Out of fear, he flinched away from memory. He could still feel the excruciating pain as the blade cut through his sheath to his member. His master laughed at hearing Aiden beg for mercy, only to laugh harder at hearing his cries of pain.

"Oh, what? You thought you were different?" Prince Erik snickered. "You thought you were special? You're not . . . you just like all the other men he _fucked_in here, craving his filthy cock . . . You'll probably even give you a gift for your service. And then . . . well, what use are you after that? He'll through you out, just like all the other whores. I'm just surprised you've managed to last this long. That'll probably change after tonight."

Aiden tried to hold back his tears. He really did. He tried to hide how much those words hurt him. He was foolish to think the king could actually have feelings for someone like him. Any confidence he still had had all faded from him. Here he was, back at the beginning, back to when he felt empty inside.

Prince Erik's smile widened. He gently caressed Aiden's face, wiping away some tears before getting up and wishing Aiden a goodnight.

Aiden pulled his legs close to his chest, trying to stifle his crying. But the tears simply wouldn't stop. He doesn't even know why Prince Erik's words hurt so much. He suspected David had men in before. He just hoped there was something more to their relationship. Aiden hadn't felt this broke in years. Not since his first night servicing his new master--the night where he was reminded _this_was his life from now on.

It was no more than ten minutes after Prince Erik had left that David returned. He had such a happy and warm smile on his lips. "Sorry I took so long; I hope you like--" his words were cut short when he saw Aiden's pained expression. David quickly placed the food down and rushed to his side. "What happened?" His voice and body were etched with worry.

David's paw reached out to cup Aiden's check, but Aiden flinched, scooting away. He suddenly didn't want to be touched by the king right now. "Nothing," he said in a cold, flat tone. He didn't want to be here with David at the moment. He just wanted to be left alone.

"Please," David almost begged, "tell me what's wrong? Did something happen?" He placed something down beside Aiden, and Aiden could only guess what it was. "A-are we going too fast?"

'No," was all Aiden said.

"Then what?" he asked. He clasped Aiden's paws in his. "Please . . ."

Aiden looked down at the ornate box. "What's this," he asked instead.

The look of worry and bewilderment crossed David's face. "It's a gift for you."

Aiden picked up the box and opened it. Inside was a tail brush. It was beautiful, and it looked expensive too. So, Prince Erik was right. He was just another whore David was paying for his services.

"I-i-it's a gift . . ." David stuttered over his words. He looked so confused and worried.

Aiden stared at the comb for a moment or two before placing it back in David's paws. He stared at the ground as he got off the bed and away from the lion.

"Do you not like it?" he asked. "Because if you don't, I can get you--"

"Do you give gifts to all the whores you have here?" he asked quietly. "A thank you gift for fucking you, and then you send them back to him." They all sent him back to that fucking bear! It's not like they couldn't see the scars he's received from men like him . . . some of those wounds even his body couldn't show, wounds that ran deeper than the flesh that covered him.

David froze. "Who-who told you that?" He came around to look at Aiden, but all the fox did was avoid eye contact. "Was my son in here? What did he tell you?!"

"Yes . . ." Aiden answered. He couldn't bare to look at the king now.

David grabbed his shoulders. "Aiden, what did he say?"

Aiden looked into his beautiful eyes and asked, "Am I just another whore to you?"

"Wha-no!" He pulled Aiden tightly against him. "No . . . you're not . . ."

Aiden just stood there. He felt sick and numb. This is what I deserve, he thought. He pushed himself away from David, putting a reasonable distance between them. He felt too hurt at the moment to want any contact--even if it is a comforting one.

"Aiden, I . . . I don't know what happened to you, but--"

Aiden covered his ears; he didn't want to hear it. "No, you don't!" He couldn't keep himself contained. "You have no idea what I've been through. I was chased from my home! All because I found out about something I shouldn't have. The church drove me out because they would have killed me if I didn't."

His body shook, and all he could see was white. He was filled with so much anger over his whole situation. The church, his master, that _fucking_hypocritic priest . . . .

David's eyes softened, seeming to understand. But he couldn't. He had no idea the hell he's been through. "The church can't hurt you here," he started to say. He began to move toward Aiden again until it was clear the fox didn't want it.

"No, the church can't hurt you, not with your royalty and status. You sit up here with your fancy bed and fuck any slave with a dick, not caring what the church does. But me, and everyone like me, they'd torture, castrate and burn at the stake," Aiden bit back. At this moment, he wished he'd never met the king. He wished he wasn't forced to--

He quickly shook his head. He didn't want to think about such thoughts right now--even if, deep down, he still didn't want to hurt the lion. Aiden went about collecting his clothing. He wanted to get dressed and out of here as quickly as possible. He couldn't bear to look at David, not when he brought up such powerful emotions. Just the sight of him made his heart flutter and his body tingle.

He started to walk away when a loud, booming voice called out, "I am your king! I did not permit you to leave!" Never had David used such an authoritative tone with him.

Aiden stopped dead in his tracks, his whole body bristling. Stiffly he turned around and bowed, awaiting his orders. "Yes, my lord," he said in a dry, even tone. If this is how you wish it to be . . . .

David looked just as shocked as Aiden felt. He seemed somehow small and defeated. "I . . . I'm sorry," he said in such a soft voice that it was almost hard for Aiden to hear. "Please, you may leave if you wish."

Aiden simply kept his eyes lowered and nodded. "Yes, my lord," he said before turning and leaving. Once outside the room, his back hugged the door, and a strangled cry broke out of him. His body shook, and his legs threatened to give out as he stood there and wailed silently. Aiden clenched his chest as his heart pounded against his ribcage. He never felt such pain before--especially from someone he dared say he loved. It felt like he was drowning in his tears as he cried. How . . . how could he say that? Aiden sobbed. He was just like all the other men his master forced him to sleep with. Unfortunately, he didn't have time to ponder that. He could hear footsteps heading his way; he didn't want whoever it was to see him. He'd have to find someplace empty or secluded to get himself under control; he couldn't let Nick see him like this.

***

David sat on the bed. He couldn't believe what he said, not to his sweet fox. He's never used his authority like that, not when it was unnecessary. And now . . . now he's hurt someone he cared about. So, why did he say that? He was desperate, he knew, but still. Would the fox ever forgive him for this?

He sat there for a long while, trying to comprehend what had just happened. He went over their conversation in his head. How had they gotten here? One minute they were enjoying their bath, David went to get their dinner, and then Aiden wanted nothing to do with him. The way Aiden flinched away from him when he went to touch the fox made his chest compress. There was something buried deep that Aiden was trying to hide, something that troubled him.

He felt hurt by Aiden's words, and he hated how he reacted. But there was something deeper than his pain: anger--bright and heavy. And that anger was directed at the person who caused all this.

David stormed out of his room. His fur bristled, and his tail lashed behind him. He wasn't surprised to find his guard trailing behind him. "What is it, Cedric," he growled. He wasn't in the mood for Cedric's reasonable voice. Right now, he was focused on his task.

"Where are you going?" he asked. His voice was calm, as it usually was.

David ignored his guard and traversed the various halls and corridors until he found himself in front of his son's room. He was about to pound on the door when his guard lightly placed a paw on his shoulder. "Try not to be too rough with him," he said. It wasn't his place to tell him how to deal with his son. Good, because it wasn't. "I'd ask you not to do this, but I see you're set on this."

"How can I not?" he hissed. "Do you know what he did?!" His hackles raised, and his tail lashed behind him in agitation.

Cedric nodded. "No, I saw him enter your chamber shortly after you left. But I could guess from the smile he had after he left. This fox is clouding your judgment. Please think this through before you enter." He squeezed David's shoulder before leaving.

He had considered it all the way here. He loved his son; he truly did, but the young lion hurt someone dear to him, and he simply couldn't let that slide. Just the image of his fox's hurt expression boiled his blood, and he was about to confront his son.

David slammed the door open and stomped straight to his son, who was lounging on one of the couches. He yanked the young lion by the shirt and slammed him against the wall. Erik looked petrified, but David didn't care. He pressed his face close to his son's and bared his fangs. "What did you say to him?" he snarled.

"To-to who?" Erik asked. He trembled in terror.

"You know who!" he roared. "You went to mine room and talked to Aiden. _What_did you say to him? Because he practically ran out of my chamber to get away from me."

Confusion creased his son's features before realization dawned on him. "You mean your whore?"

David slammed his son against the wall again, dazing the young lion briefly. "He has a name! Just because you are my son doesn't mean I won't teach you a lesson for this." David rarely threatened his son, but all he could see right now was white-hot rage . . . maybe Cedric was right; he wasn't thinking clearly.

Erik's expression changed from frightened to somber. "How do you think Mother would feel about this?" he asked. "Do you think she'd approve of you beating me for hurting your cock-sucking fox's feelings?"

David growled before letting his son go and stepping back. "No . . ." he answered, taking deep breaths to calm himself.

Erik stared at him, hugging the wall. There was a fire in his eyes, and David didn't like it. "She's not here anymore!" he shouted. He pointed the finger at his father before continuing, "because you killed her!" His eyes started to gleam with tears. David hated seeing his son resent him so much. The topic of his mother was nothing new to him, and he was tired of hearing it repeatedly.

David through his paws up in frustration. "I'm sorry!" he yelled. "I'm sorry I didn't love your mother the way I should have. I'm sorry she passed away! Do you think I don't care? She was my wife, for fuck's sake! You forgot I lost my wife_and_ daughter that day--and I will live with this for the rest of my life. So, don't you dare say I didn't care about her!" He paced back and forth. He ran a paw frustratedly through his short headfur. What will it take for this boy to understand? It's frustrating that his son blames him for something out of his control. He can't change who he is. He's always been like this--always had this attraction to men. And his mother was willing to try for another cub. It hurt him when he lost her, but he can't change the past. How could he have foreseen the complications of their cub's birth? The strain on her body was just too much, and unfortunately, it gave out on her. He lost two important people to him that day . . .

David sat down on his son's bed. His paws ran over his tired eyes. Tonight's events had exhausted him, with his fight with Aiden and now his son. David let out a sign. "Erik, look at me," he said calmly. "I miss her every day. Yes, I didn't love your mother romantically. But I did love her as a partner. I wish things were different, but I can't change who I am. The one good thing that came out of our marriage was you. I love you, son; you remind me so much of her. I just . . . I found someone that makes me happy. I'm sorry it wasn't your mother, I am . . ."

David stood up and walked over to Erik. He rested a paw on his cub's shoulder. "Sleep well," he said. "You have lessons in the morning," he looked into his son's eyes, "just . . . think about what I've said. I do not want to fight with you, but I cannot make you understand. I love you, Erik; nothing will ever change that. But please, don't ever try to hurt his feelings again." He kissed his son on the forehead before leaving.

David hadn't realized how much this whole endeavor had taken out of him. His mind felt muddled and his body sluggish as he lumbered back to his bed-chamber. Once back, David eyed the food he had brought for their dinner laid abandoned on the table. He went over and picked apart the meal. He wasn't hungry anymore, but ate a few straps to satisfy himself for the night.

He sat on his bed, picked up the brush, and waved it in front of his nose. He wished it had Aiden's scent. He wished he had Aiden here in his arms right now.I'll have a servant drop this off to him, David thought. He would do it himself but figured it best if he left Aiden alone for a while. Let him cool off. How long that would take, he didn't know. He just hoped it wouldn't take the fox too long to come back to him.

David placed the gift on the table before stripping down to his fur for the night and claiming into his empty bed.

The castle was eerily quiet, even at night. David should have seen a guard or two changing shifts but didn't. There wasn't a soul to be seen, as if the whole place was deserted. "Hello?" he called out, hoping to hear at least someone. Only the sound of his clawed feet on the stone floor and the wind howling outside reached his ears. He checked in Cedric's chamber, only to find it empty. Where has everyone gone? he wondered to himself.

Had something happened after he fell asleep? If something had forced everyone to evacuate the castle, his guard would have come to notify him. The situation David found himself in unnerved him, and with each room and hallway he checked, panic and fear began to set in. What was stranger was the thick fog that loomed just outside. David was used to seeing fog, but this one was different. It seemed ethereal and unnatural.

"Hello?!" he called out, full-out sprinting at this point. "This there anyone there?!" He stopped short of the large kitchen. He could have sworn he heard water boiling, but there was nothing on the stove once he entered. Everything looked net and put away, so his people didn't leave in a hurry. And the kitchen was usually busy, even this late at night.

David picked up and piece of fruit and took a bite out of it. Instantly, he spat it out. He looked down at the apple in his paw, finding it rotten. He tried another, and that too was rotten. Water, he thought. _I need water--_anything to get that horrid taste off his tongue. There was usually a barrel with freshwater stored here. Once he found a full barrel filled with crystal clear water, he took a cup and dipped it inside before taking a sip. The cup clasped in his paw fell to the ground as he choked. Even that water tasted terrible. It was stale and stagnated as if it hadn't been replaced in who knows how long.

David left the kitchen, disturbed by what was happening.

The next place he checked was the servant's corridors where Aiden and Nick slept, but that was empty as well. "Where the fuck is everyone?" he asked himself out loud.

As he wandered about the room, something else he noticed was strange. He hadn't seen it at first, but the more he explored, the more he realized a lot of the furniture looked caked with dust as if the castle's been abandoned for years.

David sat at the cot he knew was Nick and Aiden's. He grabbed the pillow in hopes of catching the fox's scent.

"David . . ." a low whisper echoed.

David's ears perked up. "Is someone there?" he called out.

The sound of a blade slicing through flesh entered his ears. It was so quiet and low that he wondered if he had heard it. He heard it again, and the sound of something dripping, however faint, trickled off the walls. He went about searching every hallway to find that sound. The closer here got to that sound, the more he realized it led him to the dungeon. There was something else that accompanied the sound, someone calling his name. It sounded . . . familiar.

"Hello?" he tried again.

Now, the voice sounded clearer. "David . . ."

The dripping got louder the closer he got to the dungeon's entrance. The smell of blood and death tickled his nose, almost causing him to double over. The scent of fresh blood permeated the air. Something unnatural and pained suddenly echoed off the walls.

Something was wrong. David's fur stood on end, and his heart pounded in his chest. He had to rest against a wall from how nauseous his body felt. He had a bad feeling about this. Every instinct in him told him to turn and run away.

It didn't make sense to him. He didn't have any prisoners here, and the executioner hadn't been called for anything. So, why did he have a feeling someone was here, deep in the dungeon.

"David," the voice called again.

"Aiden?" he asked. What was he doing in here?

"Come here," Aiden called. "I want to show you something . . ."

David gulped before venturing forward. Every fiber of his being screamed at him not to continue. It had something to do with Aiden, and he was terrified.

Something rotted and grotesque laid a little way down from him, and as he got closer, he could hear and see flies swarming the rotting flesh. It still dripped with blood, so it was fresh.

David's eyes widened and recoiled in horror. Laid before him was some male's recently castrated genitals. He turned away and heaved as his stomach began to lurch. Why was that there? Who's, was it? David had to cover his nose from the putrid stench.

David steeled himself before looking back down at the detached cock and sac. He dared not touch. The white and orange fur was marred with blood. The sac was a different color than the rest of the parts, favoring an orange hue. Wait . . . it almost looked familiar . . .

The sound of chains clanking caused David the jump back. When he strained his ears, he could barely hear the sound of breathing, however faint it was. Gulping, he ventured into the cell that was causing in. David froze in his tracks once he saw what was inside. There was Aiden chained to the wall. His bloody form hung lifelessly by his raised arms. His guts hung loosely from his stomach; the area with his foxhood used to be was replaced by a bloody mess. The closer David got, the more horrified he felt. A noose wrapped tightly around Aiden's neck, and there were patches all over his body where fur and flesh were seared.

"W-w-what . . . why," David croaked. He stumbled forward, his shaking paws reaching out for his lover. What could he do? He wanted to let the fox down and hold him but didn't want to if it caused pain.

"Who-who did this to you . . . ," he asked as he stared into Aiden's lifeless eyes. He held the fox's face gently between his palms. "Please, tell me. Who did this?" He wasn't expecting an answer. His lover was dead--

Though Aiden's eyes stared blankly at the ground, his lips made the faintest movement, like he was trying to whisper something. David got closer and craned his ears toward Aiden's muzzle.

"You . . ." Aiden said.

David's eyes flashed to Aiden's in an instant. "W-what . . . ?"

Aiden's paws clenched David's head and forced him to look at him with lightning-fast speed. "You did this to me!"

"No!" David cried out. He shot up from bed, clenching his chest as his heartbeat a mile-a-minute. It hammered in his chest so fast, like it was about to burst. He was drenched in sweat and tears, and when he looked down at his paws, they shook fervently. Through a teary gaze, he rang out his paws as if Aiden's blood stained them.

He fell back against his pillow and covered his eyes with an arm as he tried to catch his breath. It was only a nightmare, he told himself. Aiden's safe and sound. He had to repeat it over to himself like a mantra. "Aiden _is_safe," he told himself as if saying it aloud made him believe it.

His chamber door burst open his Cedric rushed in. "My Lord, are you alright?" he asked as he ran to his lord's side. His paws roamed David's body to see if he was hurt.

David was about to answer when something long and hard invaded his eyesight. Stick straight in front of him was Cedric's cervine cock. "I . . ." he started to say but couldn't seem to avert his gaze from his guard's member. I don' think I've ever seen it unsheathed before. He must have been in the middle of something when he heard David cry out. It was apparent the stag had tried to cover himself before entering, but the garment hung loosely around his waist. It must have billowed open once he entered.

Cedric quickly turned away, covering himself. "Apologies, my lord, I was in the middle of . . . something, anyway, I rushed over once I heard some commotion . . ." Cedric trialed off. He turned back around, and all though he tried to cover his massive size, it looked like he had started to retreat into his sheath. The blush on the stag made David smile. If at least a little.

"I'm fine," David said as he tried to compose himself. "I just had a nightmare."

"Are you sure?" Cedric asked, concerned.

David nodded. "Yes, I'm sure," he said, waving away the stag's concern. "I am fine. Thank you, Cedric; you may leave."

Cedric bowed slightly before exiting.

David watched as he left. Once the door closed, he laid back down, blowing out a breath. At least someone was getting pleasured tonight, he thought. He stared at the ceiling and tried to compile his thoughts. That dream . . . no, that nightmare stock with him, even in his waking hours. The image of how his fox was treated chilled him to the core. Why did he dream that? Was it something to come? He hoped not. But, that type of punishment, it was only--

No, he thought. He didn't even want to think about such a thing--_couldn't_think about it. He just closed his eyes and tried to get some sleep.

But sleep wouldn't come. Not for the next hour or two; David kept tossing and turning. He tried to get some sleep, but the lack of his fox next to him made it impossible. With each waking minute passing, he became more and more desperate. It got to the point where he couldn't take it anymore, and he started making his way through the hallways until he found the room he was looking for.

Just beyond the servant's doorway, David stood at the threshold, awash with indecision. He didn't care what he had to say, what apology he had to give Aiden. He just wanted the fox next to it. It was such a strong feeling that David knew it'd be impossible for him to fall back asleep. The reasonable part of him told him to give the fox some space, but the selfish part didn't care. He needed Aiden's company to fall asleep. He just didn't want to make Aiden any more unhappy than he already was.

With a heavy sigh, David started to turn away. Reason had won out. Still, it pained him to walk away, especially when his fox was just beyond that door.

The door swung open and out stepped Nick. The tired otter looked up at him, surprised. "My lord," Nick said, bowing. "Is everything alright? Do you wish for some company?" He was holding a buck between his paws.

More than you know, David thought. "N-no," he stuttered. "I was just making sure everything was alright." He smiled down at the mustelid. "What are you doing so late at night?"

"Oh, I was just going to get some water," Nick said, holding up the bucket. "Aiden and I were thirsty." He shifted from foot to foot nervously. It looked like the mustelid was trying to fight off his fatigue.

David nodded. "Well, best not keep you two waiting," he said. He was tempted to lean over the otter just to glimpse Aiden.

"Nick," Aiden said. "Is everything ok?"

Just the sound of Aiden's voice was enough to cause his heart to skip a beat and sheath to tighten. He was acutely aware his tail was swaying behind him. His paws began to shake, and his tail tip twitched.

The otter looked at him strangely. He was about to ask something before David said, "Have a good night." He reached down and ruffled the fur between Nick's ears. He quickly turned and left the confused boy. He knew if he stayed any longer, he'd step inside to talk to Aiden. Despite how hard it was for him to walk away--especially with the fox within his grasp--he had to give Aiden his space. The fox will return to him, he hoped at least.

Two things will happen: either he'll give in, or I will, David thought as he entered his bed-chamber. He crawled back into bed with a heavy sigh and tried his damndest to get some sleep.

The next three days were hard on him. He still didn't know what Lord Ashton was planning, and with everything going on in the castle, his mind kept being pulled from one thing to another. But there in the back of his mind remained his concerns over his fox. He gave Aiden his space, as he promised himself he would, but it was hard when he saw the fox in passing. Aiden would always greet him but kept his eyes averted, and his head bowed low. And every time, he stood and watched as the fox walked away. He wished Aiden would just push him against the wall and steal a kiss from him, anything to show he still cared for the king.

After a week, the cold interactions with Aiden made him even more lonely and desperate. Why couldn't the fox simply forgive him and come back to him? Couldn't he see how lonely he was? David's actions and his son's words hurt Aiden's feeling more than the king realized--and that realization quelled the anxiety over their situation. He just hoped Aiden would forgive him soon because he didn't know how much more of this torture he could take.

There was a silver lining. Though he couldn't enjoy Aiden's company, there was still the otter. When they both weren't too busy, Nick and David spent time together. It wasn't the physical contact he was hoping for, but at least he wasn't as lonely with Nick around. They were about to have lunch together in about an hour or two.

This was it. David finally gave up. He needed the fox; he couldn't wait any longer. He saw the fox up ahead. He was making his way toward him. All David could focus on was his striking eyes and the beautiful fur surrounding them. As Aiden was about to pass, David grabbed the canine and pressed him against the wall. "Aiden," he breathed. He breathed in the fox's scent, and soon his lips found Aiden's. There was no resistance; Aiden wanted this as much as David did.

Aiden pressed his tongue against David's, and his arms wrapped around him, pulling him into a tight embrace. Their paws roamed each other, and their tongues pressed against one another. Despite their height differences, Aiden seemed to fit against him perfectly.

David wished they could just stay here like this. He missed having his fox in his arms. What could he say to keep the fox with him? They had their duties to fill, but David would damn it all just to have this moment with Aiden. Even out here in the open, he craved the canine's touch.

The lion looked into Aiden's eyes. "Aiden," he purred with a grin. "I lov--"

"My lord, are you alright?" Nick asked as he stuffed his maw with another piece of bread.

"Hmm?" David asked. Nick had broken him from his little fantasy. Even though it was a dream playing in his head, he felt his body react as if it had happened. His lips tingled from the kiss, and his body felt charged from the fox's touch. Another part of him, unsurprisingly, rose to attention.

Calm yourself, David thought. He couldn't let Nick catch that scent from him. He took deep breaths, anything to quell this fire in his loins. He had to think about something other than Aiden's sexy body . . . .

David sighed to himself as this was a losing battle. Maybe if time allotted him, he could rub one out--just to get his mind off the fox and get it out of his system.

To distract himself, he watched Nick as he ate with ravenous hunger. With how the otter boy was shoveling food into his muzzle, he doubted Nick would notice the change in his scent. It did please him to see Nick open up to him. The otter felt comfortable around David.

David took a sip from his goblet and chewed on a piece of bread himself. "How's Aiden?" he couldn't help but ask.

Nick's ear twitched. "Aiden?" he asked, his head cocked to the side. "He's ok. But of late, he seems sad . . . he's always nice to me, and talks to me when I'm in the mood for conversation, but . . . he just looks hurt about something."

David's ears fold back. It was because of him that Aiden had drawn into himself. If only his son hadn't said things that were . . . true . . .

Yes, he did gift those men who slept with him. It was their payment for satisfying him. It just never felt that way with Aiden; it was different. Even in the beginning, there was something that David was drawn to. Here was this fox that he'd never met before, waiting for him outside his bathing room. And every moment and interaction he had was with Aiden after that was . . . magical--if magical was even the correct word to describe their relationship. This is what his relationship with his late wife should have been. In the past, he tried to rid himself of this allure to men--even tried to sleep with a few females. He just didn't have it in him to. With Aiden, David couldn't get enough of the fox, and he hoped Aiden felt the same . . . even now . . .

David noticed Nick watched him closely, at least not when he was stuffing his face with food. Not that he could blame the poor otter. Nick barely got proper food that he was sure of. Lord Vasely most likely gave him and the rest of the servants. At least Nickolas didn't appear to have any more bruises. Honestly, he didn't know what we would do if that vile bobcat inflicted the same punishment on Aiden--probably skin him with his own claws. "How has Lord Vasely been treating you?" he asked.

Nick almost choked on a drink of water. David reached out and patted the otter's back to help him. "L-Lord Vasely?" Nick asked meekly. He cast his eyes down, and his ears tipped back submissively. "Lord Vasely has been fine . . ."

David leaned back in his chair and studied the mustelid. He didn't believe him, but that could just be the boy's nature. "Are you sure?" he asked, putting weight behind his words.

Nick nodded vigorously.

David sighed. It appeared he wouldn't be getting much more from Nick. He'll have to investigate this himself. He wished the boy would warm up to him more. He just wanted to help him.

David took a sip from his goblet, ate a slice of able, and tried to decide his next course of action. He wanted to make sure Lord Vasely wasn't further abusing Nick, but he also wanted to talk to Aiden . . . and touch him. He wanted to find a solution to both his problems, but, for the time being, he decided to focus on Aiden first.

The rest of their lunch went without a word, and by the end of it, he bid Nick a good day. The otter walked away, seemingly happy, which made him smile. That poor boy has such a kind heart, he thought to himself.

He got up after a couple of minutes and left his room. Hopefully, a nice walk and fresh air would clear his mind and help him find a solution with Aiden. He still had the gift that was meant for Aiden in his bed-chamber. He wanted to give it to the fox but didn't want to force it on him. David's also wanted to ask Aiden about his past. What happened to him? How long has he been a slave? What forced him to run away from his home? He knew Aiden mentioned the church from his home village. Did he learn something about the priest there that drove him away? He had all these questions he wanted to ask about Aiden--simply just to get to know the fox more. David wondered if he'd ever get some of them answered.

David had his way down a long corridor that led to the gardens. The flowers that grew there were the ones used to back his special soap. He had a servant sent a buddle of them to Aiden's living quarters when he went to grab them dinner. He wondered if the fox used them after that night.

David walked into a large open room that housed the castle's gardens. It was a small room with an open ceiling to let light in--long floral tendrils wrapped around the various pillars that supported the roof. Beautiful flower beds lined the floor; they were shaped into a lovely bouquet of the family crest.

At the center of the small garden stood a statue of his father. In front of it stood a fox tending the roses that grew there. David stood still; his breath caught in his chest. Somehow Aiden looked even more beautiful surrounded by all these flowers. Sunlight shunned through the open roof; one of these rays of golden light caused Aiden's fur to glow a fiery hue. The whole scene took his breath away. David wanted to say something stupid and romantic to Aiden, but he dared not make a sound for fear it would alert Aiden to his presence. He was about to leave this beautiful place when Aiden turned around.

The fox stared at him with a guarded look but bowed low and stared at the ground. "My lord," he said in an emotionless voice. "I was about to leave."

"Aiden," he said softly. He started to make it way closer to the fox until he noticed Aiden stepped back with each step David took. It hurt him to see Aiden treat him like this. But he couldn't really blame him, could he?

"May I leave?" Aiden asked. His eyes remained adverted, and his movements stiff, as if David was about to strike him for being disobedient. Aiden needn't worry; David would never strike him.

"Aiden," David said again. With a boost of confidence, he walked over to cowering fox. Aiden had his back pressed against the statue, anything to keep some form of distance. "I'm sorry, truly I am. I'm sorry for what I said that night, and I'm sorry for my son's actions."

Aiden looked him in the eyes, if not briefly. Something was ticking behind those round orbs of his. "Did those other men mean anything to you?" he asked.

David's heart broke. "Of course not."

"Do I?" Two small words that held so much meaning.

"Of course!" He rested his paw against Aiden's arm and began stroking it. The contact felt like static against his skin. He pulled Aiden into a tight embrace, burying his nose into the fox's headfur. "You mean more to me than you realize." With Aiden so close to him, he couldn't help but take a deep breath. Aiden was using the soap he gave him. "Aiden, I want to make things right with us. Please, tell me, what can I do? You have no idea how hard it is away from you."

"Nothing," he said. He still had this passive nature around him. Maybe this wasn't a good idea after all. It looked like Aiden still needed time to sort things out for himself. "I just need more time, please?"

David blew out a breath and stepped back to give Aiden ample space. "Of course," he said. "Take as much time as you need."

Aiden cautiously moved away from him before going about collecting his things. "Have a good day, my lord."

"You to Aiden." David sat at one of the benches once Aiden left. He closed his eyes and rested his face in his paws, rubbing his temples. How had they gotten to his point? How had everything derailed so quickly? All by what his son had told Aiden. He has since forgiven him, at least somewhat. He hated how Aiden looked at him now like he was all the other men forced upon him. He could only imagen what worse men have done to him. Men that probably raped and _abused_him.

David quickly rose and slammed his fist against one of the pillars. He felt cheated out of something good. He hasn't felt this type of companionship in a long while, not since he lost Tem--the one person he felt closest to in his younger years. He was afraid something similar would happen to Aiden, and he didn't want to lose him. But Aiden wanted space, and as much as it pained him, he'd give it to him.

All he had right now were those sweet and tender moments between them to keep him going. How long will it last, though?

The distance between them seemed to grow more and more with each passing day. When David wasn't busy running a kingdom or dealing with political matters, he constantly thought about his vulpine lover. How was he doing? Was Lord Vasely treating him well? Unfortunately, he had been able to procure spies to keep tabs on Nick and Aiden. Sure, he saw Aiden in the hallways, but still, the fox gave him that formal greeting. It was hard for him not to watch as the fox left--and on occasion, he glimpsed the fox watching him too. Did this mean Aiden still thought about him as well? He was torn between his duties as the king and repairing his relationship with Aiden. Some days he just wanted to forget he was the king and be with Aiden. But he couldn't. He had to be responsible, and those came first. And after a week of sleeping alone, David was at his wit's end. He _had_to think of something to make things right between the two of them, or else he was afraid of losing him forever . . . .