The question hit Keira like a physical blow and heat rushed to her face, but anger followed swiftly on its heels. She blinked, momentarily stunned by the cheek of his inquiry. How dare he.

"I beg your pardon?" she managed, her voice tight.

"It's a simple question." The King's tone remained calm, as if he were inquiring about the weather. "I need to understand the full nature of your relationship with Alexei."

Keira's spine straightened as even more anger flared through her. "Was Alexei a ...