by Vivian Wood
“See you later, sweet Fi.”
Kellan and Luther exchange polite glances. Setting my goblet on the table in front of me, I leave the loveseat and walk to the railing. Luther joins me, standing sideways, watching me as I look out over the balcony at the hundreds of colorful lights from the festival below. With a stroke of his fingers, he brushes a loose strand of hair caught in the wind behind my ear, waking my senses.
“You’re beautiful, Fiora. Every time you enter a room, I can’t pull my gaze away.” Stepping closer, he removes what little space is between us. “I wish it was only you and me here this evening.”
Looking up at his cerulean blue eyes, I see the desire swimming in them.
“What would you do differently if it was only the two of us up here?”
“I wouldn’t have to worry about someone interrupting this,” Warm fingers cup my chin, turning my face to his. Lips, soft and affectionate, press to mine. Sliding his tongue between my lips stirs my desire. With his hand around my back, he forms my chest to his. Hand nestled in my hair, he massages my neck as his lips devour my mouth. Pulling back, I take a breath, my head dizzy with lust.
“There’s something between us. I know you feel it too, and I admit, I don’t like having to share you with three other suitors. I’d rather it be just the two of us discovering what this is.”
Turning away from him, I look out at the horizon, taking each breath slowly. Strong hands overlap mine, intertwining with my fingers before the warmth of his chest forms to my back. My eyes close as his lips graze the shell of my ear, sending a brief wave of pleasure through me.
“What are you thinking?”
“That I don’t trust you.”
“Why would you? We barely know one another. All I know is I’m drawn to you and want so much more of you.”
The feathery touch of his lips hardens my nipples. Leaning my head back, I let him kiss the column of my neck.
“How much of this is seduction and how much is real?”
“That’s for you to figure out, but for me, I already know it’s real.”
“I want to believe you, but I can’t. I’d be a fool to trust any of you this early on.”
“It’s true, you would.”
“Then you know you have much to prove.”
Tongue licking my neck, he nips at my skin, drawing a pleasured breath from my parted lips.
“I do, and I’m willing to do what it takes to earn your trust.”
“That’s a start.”
Adjusting his stance, he angles to my side, bracing my head in his palm as he leans down and kisses me. The caress of his hand runs down my back as the kiss ends. Leaning casually against the railing, his smile reveals his state of pleasure.
“Do you like music?”
“I do.”
“If we marry, would you enjoy hearing me play instruments in the palace and attending the Anaukin music festival with me?”
“I would. I’m curious if you’re as good of a musician as I’m expecting.”
With a shrug of his shoulder, his mouth quirks.
“I’m not one to brag, but I can please.”
“You have piqued my interest. I’ll have to hear you play.”
Behind us, a man clears his throat. Our gazes follow the sound to Malark. Luther’s lip curves slightly as he stares at him, annoyed by the interruption. Leaning in, he kisses me softly, stroking my cheek with his thumb.
“I had so much more I wanted to discuss. Another reason I wanted you to myself.” Against my ear, he whispers, “Be careful with him.”
The men nod politely in passing. Luther glances over his shoulder, an expression of discomfort on his face as he sees Malark approaching me.
“Princess—”
“Fiora, please.”
Standing at the railing next to me, he admires me, his expression full of delight.
“It’s a pleasure we get to enjoy your company in private this evening.”
“What would you like to talk about while you have me?”
Placing his hand over mine, he caresses my skin. The sensation should cause a pleasant reaction, but I feel nothing, only his touch.
“Would you prefer political and social welfare or something more casual?”
“Casual. Tell me about your home. Do you have siblings?”
“I do. I have a younger sister the same age as your brother, Leon. Her name is Cassia.”
“It’s a beautiful name. Is she as pretty as you are handsome?”
“She is. Even more so. She’ll make a lovely wife someday.”
“Only a wife? You don’t have any other goals for her?”
“She wants to own racehorses. She enjoys being involved and watching them as much as you like participating. She’s quite fond of you and has been calling me, asking me all sorts of details about you.”
“It’ll be my pleasure to meet her.”
“Hers as well.”
“What about you, Malark? What are your goals?”
“To do something exceptional with my life.”
“Acquiring the throne would be exceptional.”
“It would be. If married, I believe you and I could keep Anauka peaceful and prosperous for our entire reign.”
“What about men like Belore? He wants to expand Iowan territory into Anauka. What would you do about him?”
“Increase security on the border we share with Iowan. I would want to set up a meeting with him. Hear what exactly it is he wants. Perhaps we can keep peace by negotiating an agreement.”
“I respect the diplomatic approach, but unfortunately, a man like Belore doesn’t negotiate, and once he’s King, he’ll be a problem for me and the people of Anauka.”
“Would you lead Anauka into war as your first act as a monarch?”
“No, I wouldn’t declare war. I would be far more discreet and calculated when dealing with Belore. Could you handle my approach?”
“I could, and I would help you plan it.”
“I believe you to be capable of handling strategic warfare. How about social welfare? Can I trust you to care for others? To always choose what is most beneficial for the Anaukin people?”
“Yes.”
“What if we disagreed? Would you use the diplomatic approach or would you be discreet and calculated to get what you want?”
Eyes a stony blue, he stares at me, the realization dawning on him.
“You lead me into that.”
“I did.” Giving an impish grin, I wink at him. “I’m trained in all sorts of tactics. Please don’t underestimate me. It would be your mistake. I meant it when I said I want each of you to show me who you truly are. It’s time you do so.”
As I pass him to leave, his head drops.
“I want the throne as much as I want you.”
Turning, I face him. “Honesty looks good on you.”
“Do you find me less appealing now that you know the truth?”
Tilting my head, I observe the worry wrinkling his brows.
“No. A King should want the crown as much but not more than the Queen sitting next to him. So, that’s my only remaining concern with you. Which do you want more? The throne or me?”
Malark goes to speak, and I raise my hand, stopping him.
“I already know the answer. We’ve only just met. You came here already wanting the throne.”
“Fiora, it’s true, I’ve dreamt about being King, but that was before I met you. You’ve changed my aspirations. It might be greedy to say, but now I desire both. You’re far more cunning than the other suitors are capable of understanding. As you’ve discovered, I can do what is necessary of a King. I can be the ruler and the man you need.”
Eliminating the space between us, he pulls me into his arms, slipping his tongue between my lips rapidly and repeatedly. Pulling back, I stop the kiss.
“What is it?” he asks, his tone concerned.
“The ale. I’m afraid it’s upset my stomach,” I lie.
“Oh. Would you l
ike me to have water brought up for you?”
“Yes, please.”
“I’ll do that now.”
He leaves me, and I take a breath, settling the discomfort in my stomach. Returning to the loveseat, I sit and take a drink of ale. Riorrick turns the corner moments later, looking at me confused as I sip from my goblet.
“Malark said he’s fetching you water, that your stomach is upset.”
Setting the glass down, I do my best not to break a smile.
“I’m feeling better.”
Joining me, he faces me on the loveseat. The dark navy suit he wears is an appealing contrast to his red hair and cerulean eyes.
“Did you want rid of him?”
“No. The water will be refreshing.”
Taking my hand, he holds it over his knee.
“My respect for you continues to grow. You’re an unpredictable and talented woman. I admit I’m fascinated.”
“Any woman raised the way I was and given the same opportunities would be just as fascinating.”
“Perhaps there’s truth to that, but you are special. The interesting part is you don’t see it. You consider yourself the opposite of unique.”
“I find you fascinating as well. You’re reserved but clearly intelligent. You’re introverted and don’t appear to have the need to boast about yourself or talents. Even with that, I still know very little about you. So, please, share with me.”
“People often assume I’m shy or timid, but I’m neither. I’m thoughtful. I probably spend too much time in my own head,” he laughs.
“Not a bad thing.”
“I agree. I enjoy things that are mentally stimulating like writing and playing chess. I’m easily bored when something isn’t thought-provoking.”
“What do you like to write?”
“Short stories.”
“Would you let me read them?”
“I would if we married,” his lips turn up, lightening his eyes. “If I let you read them before, you would have leverage against me.”
His playful comment tilts my lips.
“You likely don’t give yourself enough credit.”
“I had one short published in the Anaukin journal. People did leave positive comments below it.”
“See what I mean. You’re a humble man, aren’t you?”
“I try to be.”
“I believe as King you’d care about our people and truly want what’s best for them, but what about the part of being King where you have to enforce laws, punishments, and make choices to protect our people. There’s a constant threat outside the boundaries of our territory. How would you handle it?”
“Together. You and me. I would want to discuss the problems with the Royal Factions, our advisors, then privately between you and me. I’d want us to think about the benefits and consequences of our actions, then choose what we feel is best for Anauka.”
Smile widening, I lean back into the cushions.
“You surprise me, Riorrick. You’re a man the other suitors should be watching out for.”
“The quiet thinkers come up with the best solutions.”
“Indeed they can. What about adventure and spontaneity? Are those things you enjoy as well?”
“Not as much as you enjoy them, and it worries me I might bore you.”
“There isn’t much that bores me. I’m fascinated by many things. It is important to me though the man I choose as King understands what I need and has similar interests.”
“It’s why I’m eager to spend more time with you. I want to know everything that makes you happy and also what doesn’t so I can keep you from having to experience those things.”
Rotating my hand in his, I give it a squeeze.
“I like you. You’re genuine and honest. I respect those traits.”
My eyes dart to Malark as he rounds the corner, a pitcher of water and a glass in his hands. Coming to the table, he pours water into the glass, hands it to me, and sets the pitcher down.
“Did you retrieve the water yourself,” I ask, surprised.
“I intended to, but palace staff wouldn’t let me near the kitchen.”
With a giggle, I find his effort charming.
“Our palace security is efficient,” I explain. “Only high clearance staff are allowed in there. That’s different from home, I’m sure.”
“It is,” Malark shares.
“I appreciate the gesture, anyway.” Standing, I lift the goblet from the table, holding both glasses in hand. “Why don’t we take our drinks by the fire? The night is getting cooler, I could use the warmth.”
Malark picks up the pitcher, and both men follow me to the other side of the privacy wall. Kellan and Luther are sharing a bench, their conversation ending when we approach. Adding space between them, they gesture for me to sit there. Taking a long swallow of water, I leave both glasses on the table before joining them.
Once seated, both men scoot closer, cocooning me in the warmth of their bodies and the fire. Luther’s arm swings around the back of the bench, his fingers delicately strumming my hair, sending little pulses of pleasure through my body with each stroke. Malark and Riorrick watch his movement, their expressions revealing their irritation.
“I’ve enjoyed my time with each of you this evening. Starting tomorrow, I’d like for all of us to go riding. As you already know, it’s something I enjoy and do almost daily. It’s important to me the man I choose as King also enjoys riding or can at least stay atop a horse for a length of time.”
The men chuckle, none of them looking nervous, giving me relief they all can probably ride.
“Gentlemen, I do hope you have a good night’s rest. I have a meeting with my father tomorrow morning at breakfast. Afterward, we’ll begin our day together.”
Luther’s palm caresses down my back. Leaning over, he kisses my cheek.
“Goodnight, Fiora.”
Kellan takes my hand, and we both rise. He hugs me, his arm lingering around me as his hand strokes over my hair. Softly, he kisses my forehead.
“Goodnight, sweet Fi.”
Riorrick approaches, taking my hand and kisses it. Malark is behind him. He takes my hand and walks with me to the door.
“Thank you for a wonderful evening. I’m eager to see you tomorrow,” he shares.
“I look forward to seeing you all as well.”
Leaving them, I pass through the threshold and go in the direction of our main living area of the palace. Holding my dress in my hand, I stroll to my room, my stomach leaping with excitement that Matheas is there waiting for me. Climbing the stairwell, I hurry the last few steps. My bedroom door slides open as I approach. Confused, my steps slow.
In front of me, sitting in my favorite reading chair, is my mother, Melinda, gorgeous as ever in her pale gold evening dress and her dark hair in a partial up-do. Sitting across from her is my Grand Nina, sipping tea from a warm mug. Next to my mother, Ria refills my mother’s mug with more of the warm liquid.
“Where’s Matheas?” I ask them, concerned.
“He’s fine, darling,” Nina assures me. “His services are not needed this evening. Tonight, we’ll all be staying together.”
“It’s tradition,” my mother explains. “The splendor ceremony and gathering afterward can often lead to heightened sexual desire for you and your suitors. Tonight will be a ladies’ night. We’ll begin with relaxing in the spa bath. After, we’ll have a refreshing drink and dessert, then we’ll settle in for the night.”
“Where?”
“In a suite I’ve had made up for this occasion,” my mother replies matter-of-factly.
“I’d like to speak with Matheas before we begin.”
“No need,” my mother insists. “He’s been given the night off. I’m sure he’s already in town having himself a pleasurable evening.”
“Unlikely.” Nina winks at me, and the irritation my mother’s words caused begins to settle.
“Ria will gather what you need. Let’s not dally.”
As much as my mother and I look alike, we’re the opposite in personality. She’s exceptionally feminine, proper, and enjoys doing activities that are physically undemanding. Having staff tend to her every whim is something she enjoys, but she also appreciates it and treats them with the utmost kindness. Having respect for our staff is one trait we do share.
“Ria, you’re dismissed. Have a good night,” I tell her.
My mother’s jaw snaps.
“Ria, you are not dismissed.”
Standing stiff, Ria’s expression transitions to worry, unsure whose orders to follow.
“We can pour our own drinks, and I can dress and carry my own things. Ria doesn’t need to spend the rest of her evening doing such mundane things for us. You’re dismissed, love, and that’s an order,” I emphasize.
“I’m sorry, Queen Melinda.”
Ria hurries out, nodding to me pleasantly as she goes.
“I’ll call my own staff to tend to us then,” she huffs before raising her mug to her lips.
I chuckle at her as I walk to my wardrobe, the door sliding open for me to enter the small room. Undressing, the gown falls to my feet, and I set it aside for cleaning. Gathering my soft red robe, I wrap it around my body, the fabric covering me from shoulders to knees. Taking off my shoes, I bury my feet inside petite warm slippers. Outside of my wardrobe, my mother and Nina are standing, ready to escort me to our activities.
Entering the spa chamber, I’m overwhelmed with stimulants. The room is scented in lavender, vanilla, and sandalwood. Candelabras are fixed around the room, giving the ambiance a relaxing and dimly lit setting. At the center, and level with the floor is a large circular pool, heated to a comfortable temperature. Infused in the water are liquids to soothe and relax the body, giving the water a beautiful teal color.
Per my mother’s request, three female staff members are waiting inside the room. She and Nina approach them, and they assist them with undressing. The third expects me to approach her, but instead, I disrobe on my own. Going to the vanity nearby, I pull the bands from my hair.
“I can assist you with that,” Lenny presses. Looking at her round, aging face in the mirror, I smile at her.
“No need. Tend to my mother.”
Lenny, one of my mother’s regular staff members and a woman with graying hair smiles back.