Family of Lies: Sebastian by Sam Argent Read Free Book Online Page B

off the horse, and Pasley helped him carry the prince to the infirmary, leaving Sebastian alone with the captain and a group of guards.
    “I should have minded my own business,” Sebastian said.
    Captain Pembrost shrugged. “Doing the right thing does have its own consequences, but you’re in this mess because of the tavern incident. You and I need to chat.”
    “I only found the prince and brought him here as my duty,” Sebastian said.
    “Uh-huh,” Captain Pembrost said. “I’ll put you in the barracks tonight. You’ll be surrounded by guards without being a prisoner. You’ll also be protected from anyone who thinks you’re involved with the prince’s bad health.”
    “Save a man’s life and then face accusations of a conspiracy. I should have stayed home. When your prince wakes up, thank him for putting me in this situation.”
    Captain Pembrost smiled. “Only your deceit is responsible for this,” he whispered so the other guards couldn’t hear him.

C HAPTER 5
     
     
    S EBASTIAN ’ S EYES drowsily opened to bunk beds and cabinets lining the walls from floor to ceiling. Steaming foods, looking more appetizing than military rations, sat on a nearby table. There had been nothing but interviews since the guards forced Sebastian into the castle. Sometimes the king watched, and Pembrost asked questions until night turned to morning. Sebastian smiled. Despite their efforts, his tongue didn’t slip from his original story. He quickly ate the biscuits and sausage so he could have energy for an escape. There were guards posted at his door, but the ones from last night weren’t mages. He opened his door to see if his bad luck still held, but the guards were gone. Sleeping Beauty has finally awakened. Looking both ways, Sebastian stepped into the hall and closed the door behind him. He turned around, and Captain Pembrost stood with his arms crossed.
    “A latrine break?” the captain asked.
    “Where else would I be going?”
    “With me to see the prince.”
    “Awake one morning and already making unnecessary demands. What’s in it for me?”
    “We forget the tavern incident and call it a simple misunderstanding.”
    “Which means I’ll be paid for saving the prince’s life twice?”
    “Maybe.”
    Sebastian mirrored the captain’s crossed arms. “Maybes are for weather forecasters and con men.”
    “An expert on the latter, are we?”
    “Insulting me increases my price,” Sebastian said.
    “Fine! You’ll be rewarded for saving the prince twice, but you have to be civil,” Captain Pembrost bargained.
    “That depends on you returning my book.” Sebastian thrust his hand out and waited.
    Captain Pembrost smiled. “I accidentally left it in the prince’s room.”
    Bastard. Sebastian waved his hand at Captain Pembrost. “Go on, lead the way to the eager puppy.”
    “And no calling him names,” Captain Pembrost said before turning on his heel and leading Sebastian to the pain in the ass who was responsible for ruining his peaceful week.
     
     
    A LONG bandage was wrapped around Turren’s bare midsection, but he still managed to smile. Sebastian rolled his eyes. No names, but I am tempted. Silence became uncomfortable in the room when neither man would speak first. The king drew in breath to break it, but Prince Turren cleared his throat. “You keep seeing me at my worst, Sebastian. Thank you for saving my life.”
    Sebastian shrugged. “Your death would have been inconvenient, to the country and definitely to my family if you died in my company.”
    King Harris sputtered, but Prince Turren laughed so hard he doubled over in pain. He sank back against the pillows and smiled at Sebastian weakly. “It amazes me how nothing intimidates you. I never did ask how your family is doing.”
    “Far more prosperous than they think or deserve,” Sebastian said.
    The prince yawned and shook his head.
    “Sleep now, son. Frederick can continue his work once you’ve built up more strength,” the king