by Vivian Wood
“Thank you for the dance, Princess.”
“My pleasure.”
Matheas’s grip on my hips tighten, pulling me from Luther’s grasp. Arm around my side, he draws me away from the crowded room full of Royals. In the corner of the ballroom, a door opens to an entryway, then another door to the splendor room. Inside, at the center, there’s a pedestal for me to stand on. Facing the pedestal is a leather chair and beside it a table with a flask of Anaukin ale and five clean glasses
Matheas grasps my arm, turns me to face him, cupping my face in his hands. The heat of his kiss slips through my lips, travels through my body and explodes at my center. Pulled close to him, his fiery need to claim me, here and now, draws my arousal, making me wet with desire. Bunching the fabric of my gown, he raises it. Touching between my legs, he rubs my clit, weakening my knees. Gripping his arm, I bury my face in his chest, smothering my moans. Withdrawing his hand, I lean toward him, desperate for more of his touch. Turning to leave the room, he growls.
“Mine.”
The door opens and closes behind him. Nibbling my lip, my body buzzing with need, a grin curls my lips. The possessiveness he displays is remarkable, and I love every bit of it.
Having been given prior instruction, I remove my gown, hanging it over the changing partition in the back left corner of the room. Walking to the flask of ale, I pour myself a glass, tip my head back, swallowing it down. Leaving the glass behind, I take the two steps onto the pedestal and wait.
Hearing the outside door open, my nerves vibrate through my body. The second door slides open, and Kellan walks in, carrying a white rose. Taking a breath, I relax.
“You have no idea how glad I am it’s you first.”
Kellan shrugs his shoulder, looking me over like a piece of fine art.
“Names were drawn. I was lucky number one,” he says casually.
Walking up to me, he hands me the rose. Raising it to my nose, I take in the sweet fragrance.
“Thank you.”
“Welcome, Princess.”
Walking to the ale, he pours himself a glass.
“Each of us gets thirteen minutes. What are we going to do for those thirteen minutes? As beautiful as you are, staring at you doesn’t do much for me.”
Pouring a second glass, he brings me the cup.
“You can come off the pedestal if you’d like.”
Taking the glass, I step down.
“I’d like to.”
“You can have the chair. I’ll take the floor.”
“Deal.”
Sitting down, I cross my legs and bring the warm liquid to my lips. Kellan sits in front of me, his legs out in front of him, resting against one hand, the ale in the other.
“What’s your partner’s name?”
“Cayall.”
“How long have you known one another?”
“Four years. Met him at the Anaukin music festival. We laid with each other that night, and I’ve been hooked ever since.”
“Anyone else know your secret besides Matheas and me?”
“Yes, my cousin, Eleanor. She’s the closest friend I have back home.”
“When you return home, will you share your preference for men with the rest of your family?”
“That’s what I’d like to do. I figured if you didn’t choose me, it would make breaking the news easier.”
“Does your House want you to represent them in the Royal Faction?”
“They do.”
“Is that what you want?”
“It is. I’d prefer to spend more time at the palace. I like it here. Especially with you here.”
“When you return, you’ll be returning with an endorsement seal.”
Kellan’s eyes widen. “You’d do that?”
“Yes. I’ll endorse you. Not just because I’m your friend, but because I’ve heard your political views during our meals. They’re similar to mine. I think we’d work well together.”
His beautiful smile stretches his lips. “I do too.”
Kellan’s soul band vibrates. We both look at it.
“Time is up, Princess.”
Rising to his feet, he takes my glass, setting it on the table. When I stand, he places his hand on the nape of my neck. Leaning toward me, he kisses my forehead.
“See you soon, sweet Fi.”
My mouth tilts at the nickname.
Returning to the pedestal, I await the next suitor. The first door opens, then the second. Riorrick walks in, the rose tight in his grip. He takes a glance at me, his freckled cheeks flushing pink. Walking to the flask, he pours it full, tips his head back and downs it. Looking back at me, his eyes lock on my body. Reaching down, he adjusts himself, taking in a deep breath. Peeling his eyes away, he takes several more calming breaths like I’ve seen Matheas do when he’s trying to control his desire.
“You’re gorgeous, Princess.”
Approaching me slowly, his eyes start at my chest and follow my body to my patch below. Outstretching his hand, he hands me the rose.
“I’m honored to view such beauty.”
Looking down at him, I notice his cheeks and ears are colored red like his hair.
“Thank you,” I reply, taking the rose.
“Would you like to come down?”
“Yes.”
Giving me his hand, I step down. Gaze on mine, his eyes are bright with lust.
“Every suitor is granted one kiss. Would you honor me with that kiss?”
The corner of my mouth lifts. He’s the only suitor who saved his kiss for this moment. It’s clever and sweet.
“Of course.”
Placing his hand at my elbow, he brings me close. Putting his free hand around my waist, he pulls me against him, the swell of his erection grazing me. Touching his lips to mine, he kisses slowly as if savoring every second of it. His kiss is warm, his touch affectionate as he caresses my back. Hand to my face, he deepens the kiss, slipping his tongue between my lips. Moaning into my mouth, he dances his tongue with mine, stirring arousal in me. Withdrawing slowly, he caresses my cheek, staring at me with burning desire in his eyes.
“I’ve never seen or tasted a woman as lovely as you.”
Warmth fills my cheeks.
“Thank you.”
“It’s been my pleasure, Princess.”
With his hand in mine, he assists me back onto the pedestal.
“Do you enjoy the theater?” he asks, releasing my hand.
“I do.”
“I’ll make plans for us to ride in the early day and enjoy the theater in the evening. Would you like that?”
“I would,” I smile.
Giving my body another look, his gaze lingers over my breasts, sweeping slowly down.
“Your image will be difficult to forget, Princess.”
“Your words are flattering.”
Soul band vibrating, he releases a sigh.
“Unfortunately, our time has come to an end. I look forward to your company after this.”
I take a moment, letting the stimulation to my body settle. Hearing the next suitor coming through the door, my body tightens again.
The second door opens to Luther. Passing the threshold, he stops, his gaze directly meeting mine. With desire in his eyes, his penetrating stare holds me hostage. With casual, confident steps he nears the pedestal. The silky touch of rose petals meets my outer thigh. Slowly and intimately, the petals caress my skin, coming to a stop on my inner thigh, grazing my center. A breath escapes my parted lips. Between my legs is an ache I can’t control. Keeping his gaze on mine, he brings my hand to his lips. With the light touch of his tongue, he kisses the inside of my palm before placing the rose in it.
Without a word, he steps back from the pedestal, leaving me breathless. Drinking me in, he places his hand to his mouth, his thumb and finger rimming the curve of his lips.
“It’s pleasing to know you want me too.”
Closing my eyes, I exhale. Bringing my thighs together, I hide the slickness betwee
n them. With my chest bare, my attraction for him is apparent, my vulnerability as a woman on display for him to view. The true purpose of the splendor ceremony becomes a sudden and brutal awareness.
“Fiora.” His voice is seductive, calling to me. “Do you crave passion?”
Opening my eyes, I meet his heated gaze. “I do.”
“I’m the man who can give it to you.”
The way his eyes promise his words intensifies the arousal between my legs, making it more difficult to hide. Gaze dropping between my legs, he sucks his bottom lip into his mouth, teasing my desire.
“Until we’re alone again, Princess.”
At that moment, his soul band vibrates. Releasing the hold of his gaze, he walks out, the door sliding closed behind him.
Letting my breath go, I squeeze my thighs together, a wave of pleasure passing through me. Going to the ale, I set down the roses and pour more into my glass, using the alcohol to settle all feelings. Placing a hand on the chair, I sink into it, my head falling back against the leather. Closing my eyes, I clear my mind, focusing on my own rhythmic breaths. Hearing the outside door slide open, I set my glass down and rush back to the pedestal, turning just in time for Malark to enter.
Eyes filling with lust, he admires me. With warm cheeks, I likely appear pleased to see him. Coming to me, his grin pulls at the corner of his mouth as he hands me the rose.
“I’m as delighted to see you as you are me.”
Gaze traveling to the ale, he follows it. Smile wider, he walks to it and pours us both a glass. Bringing me mine, he steps back and admires my body.
“You’re magnificent, Princess.”
Tongue pressed against his upper lip, his gaze lingers over my dark patch and the tender pink flesh below. Tipping his head back, he drains his glass. I do the same. Taking my empty glass, he returns to the table and pours another for himself before sitting in the leather chair. Glass in his hand, he holds it on the edge of the chair arm as he leans back comfortably, enjoying his view.
Moments pass, elevating my nerves before he stands, taking unhurried steps around the pedestal to my backside. Behind me, I hear him groan quietly before taking another drink.
“You’re just as stunning from behind.”
Rolling my eyes, I give nothing away, my body still and unmoving.
“Thank you for such flattery.”
“It’s not just flattery.” Coming around to face me, he meets my gaze. “I’m gripped by your beauty.”
His soul band vibrates, and inside, my heart leaps with relief.
“Unfortunately, our time has passed. I look forward to seeing you at the suitor gathering.”
As soon as the door closes behind him, I return to the changing partition to retrieve my gown.
From here all the suitors will be brought to the veranda on the second floor of the palace. It’s a private gathering for only them and me. They’ll be given the opportunity to share my company away from the watchful eyes of the other Royals.
As I slide a strap over my shoulder, Matheas enters, the door locking behind him. Eyes filled with emotion, he crosses the room, stopping directly in front of me. As he reads my eyes, his own express dissatisfaction mixed with longing.
“That was one of the most difficult hours of my life,” he tells me. Caressing his hand along my arm, he pulls the second strap onto my shoulder.
Looking up at him, I place my hand against his cheek, sweeping my thumb across his lips. Placing my mouth to his, I give into the arousal coursing through my body. Moaning, he loses his control. Putting a hand in my hair, he pulls me flush against him. Taking my ass in his hand, he tightens our union, pressing his length into my center. My back hits the wall, and I raise my leg, wrapping it around his waist. Holding my thigh, he thrusts against me.
“It doesn’t matter what man touches you, Fi,” Another thrust and I moan, desperately needing more. “You’ll always be mine.”
In every fiber of my being, I know this to be true. The bond I share with Matheas is one which can never be broken or replaced. He’s captured my heart without mercy, I’m captive to his love.
Pulling back, he bunches my dress, raising it, revealing the wetness between my legs as he lowers to one knee. Hand caressing my leg, he lifts it, tossing it over his shoulder. Inhaling a sharp breath, I roll my head back as his lips devour me, his tongue claiming my arousal.
With each pleasurable touch of his lips and tongue, he leads my body to ecstasy. Deeper, I fall into the magnificent sensations coursing through me. Trembling, I’m desperate for release.
“Matheas…” His name is a plea on my parted lips as I come apart, reaching my orgasm.
Kissing the inside of my thigh, he lowers my leg, and my gown falls from his hands, sweeping the floor. Reaching his full height, he looks down at me, his gaze erotic.
“You have an innate ability to leave a lasting memory,” I tell him, my lip curling into a satisfied and lascivious grin.
“I aim to please.”
With a wink, he leans in and kisses me, acquainting me with the taste of my own arousal.
“It’s time for me to take you to the veranda,” he tells me, his tone full of disappointment. “You know where I’ll be when you’re finished.”
Another kiss and we pull apart, his gaze now matching the regret I feel that our time together has to end.
With my hand circled around his arm, he leads me back to the ballroom where I’m flooded with Royals drunk on Anaukin ale. Steadily paced, Matheas moves me through the room and their excited conversations.
Ascending the marble stairwell together, we take several steps in silence, his unease palpable.
“If you wanted to lay with another man, would you tell me?”
“I think so, but I don’t want to lay with another man, so why the question?”
“Because there may come a time you feel differently. If you did, I would be willing to accept it under one condition.”
“And what is that?”
“You lay with both of us and never lay with him alone.”
Breath caught in my lungs, my cheeks flush. Matheas glances at me, his lips tilting in a mischievous grin.
“The thought arouses you, doesn’t it?”
“Maybe,” I smirk, giving him a sideways glance.
Stopping on the stairwell, he gently takes my arm, facing us toward one another.
“I’ve seen the way your body responds to Luther kissing you. As Queen, you’ll have the choice to lay with whomever you want, whenever you want. I’d rather share you than lose you to another man.”
Leaning in, I kiss his cheek before brushing my lips over his ear. “You’ll never lose me. I’m yours to keep.”
CHAPTER TWELVE
FIORA
Reluctantly, Matheas releases my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze before leaving me at the entrance to the veranda. Watching him go, I give my attention to the veranda door once he’s no longer visible. Stepping forward, the sliding door opens to the balcony area. Ahead of me is a fire lit inside a raised stone hearth. Around the fire is an L-shaped bench and across from it, two more double seated chairs, all cushioned with scarlet fabric. Beyond the sitting area is a tall glass tabletop with a flask of ale and five goblets, some of which have already been filled and are in the hands of the suitors.
Moving farther onto the veranda, the door slides shut behind me, and the attention of the men is pulled from their conversations, drawn to me. Charming smiles stretch their lips toward their desire-filled eyes.
“Princess,” Malark addresses me first, pointing to the empty space between him and Riorrick. “Join us.”
Luther approaches casually, handing me a glass of ale.
“Perhaps she’d like to take a moment to release her nerves. Standing on that pedestal for each of us took a lot of courage.”
Taking the glass, I give an appreciative half-smile before bringing it to my lips. Malark tries to hide his frown, but his eyes reveal the daggers he’s shooting at Luther.
Kellan, leaning against the balcony railing watches them with amusement. With my glass in hand, I address them all.
“I appreciate the respect and kindness each of you has offered me throughout the trials and splendor ceremony. Tonight, I’d like to spend our time together letting go of formalities. I want each of you to show me the man you truly are. It will make our time together far more worthwhile.” Raising my glass, I make a toast. “Welcome to the suitor phase, gentlemen.”
Kellan takes a drink and locks eyes with me, taking systematic steps toward me.
“Princess.” Outstretching his hand to me, he requests, “Can we have a moment alone?”
“Of course.”
Linking my fingers through his, I let him guide me away from the other suitors. Each of them watches with different expressions, none of them pleased. Passing a privacy wall created for this occasion, Kellan guides me to a scarlet red loveseat on the other side, softened by several cushy pillows. Taking the seat, he puts an arm around me, and I lean into his shoulder, enjoying the fragrance of his musky citrus cologne and the soft fabric of his cobalt sweater.
“I didn’t think you would mind if I stole you away from them.”
“Not at all.”
Lifting my glass, I sip slowly, already warm from the effects of the ale I’ve consumed this evening.
“How did the rest of the splendor ceremony go?”
“It was intense. Each of the men reacted differently. Riorrick saved his request for a kiss during his time. It was sweet.”
“They all behaved themselves then?”
“Yes.”
“They’ve been chattering with enthusiasm waiting for you to arrive.” Leaning in, he whispers. “After viewing you, I think you now have them wrapped around your delicate finger.”
“Any that I should be concerned about?”
“Nothing I’ve seen. Malark has been his usual overconfident self. From what I’ve observed, Luther and Riorrick are smitten with you.” Kellan’s voice remains low. “And there’s Luther now.”
My head shifts to Luther approaching from the far end of the privacy wall. Kellan kisses my cheek before standing.