Chapter 263. So Much Lost Time

"William." His father said in a croak. Somehow, he still carried a presence even as sick as he was. Nothing dimmed the leader inside him. He would most likely take that honor to the grave.

"Father." William bowed his head. He released Doris's hand for the first time as he stepped up to the man. "How do you feel?"

"Let's cut the small talk before I die halfway through it." His father said before a fit of coughs. Doris didn't know what to do with herself. She silently stepped back until she blended into the walls around her. She felt out of place like she shouldn't have been here listening to this.

William pulled up a chair that was close to his bed and sat down in it. The king glanced over at Doris as if he saw her for the first time.

"Is this her? The mate I've been hearing about?" The king asked. Doris felt goose bumped over his skin as the king acknowledged her for the first time since she entered the room. Her cheeks burned red as he looked her over. "I re