Lionel laughed under his breath. "Since when did you stop talking about your conquests?"
"Since now," Richard shot back.
"Fuck. You're done for."
Richard looked away. "I know."
Lionel's amusement faded. "If you are really going to go through with this…" His voice turned grave. "Do not bring her around the king. I mean it," Lionel continued. "She can be nowhere near the king."
"The king already said he would kill me if he sees my face again," Richard said.
Lionel gave him a flat look. "You deserve worse."
"I know." Richard rubbed a hand over his face and winced when his fingers brushed the swelling near his cheekbone. "Can we move on and tell me something I don't know? I did not come here to be flogged with the same accusation all night."
