Zen turned his attention back to the Empress. "They are with me, Aurelia," he said flatly. "They are my entourage. If you don't want them around, then you do not want me around. We can turn around and leave immediately. The choice is yours."
Aurelia's cold glare completely faltered. The mere thought of him walking out those doors made the manic obsession flare wildly in her eyes.
She quickly forced a radiant, welcoming smile back onto her face.
"Of course not, my love," Aurelia said sweetly, reaching out to hold his hand. "Don't be absurd. I would never turn you away. They are more than welcome to stay as our esteemed guests."
"Glad we understand each other," Zen replied coldly.
Aurelia raised her free hand and snapped her elegant fingers. The heavy golden doors pushed open immediately, and four elite guards marched into the room, bowing deeply.
