by Vivian Wood
“You know how she is, Princess. Let me assist you this evening.”
“All right,” I accept, not wanting to cause her any trouble with my mother.
Soft hands untangle my hair, resting it on my back. Behind me, she picks up my robe and slippers and places them on the stand next to the vanity.
The three of us descend the steps into the pool. Warm water surrounds my body, giving a stimulating and tingling sensation across my skin as the water reaches my chest. Moving forward, I settle onto the comfortable bench along the pool wall. A glass of lemon and strawberry infused water are handed to each of us. After a refreshing sip, I lean back and relax with my eyes closed. I enjoy this state for several minutes before my mother speaks.
“Have any of the suitors caught your interest?”
“They’re all nice,” I reply, my eyes still closed.
“Nice?” she asks, confused. “Those men are more than nice. They’re incredibly handsome, talented, sophisticated, and all want you.”
“If you weren’t already married, I’d tell you to marry one of them with the way you’re speaking about them.”
Nina chuckles next to us, and I crack a smile.
“Why do you challenge me on everything, daughter?”
“It’s in my nature,” I reply playfully.
“You’re too much like your father.”
“I am,” I agree.
Opening my eyes, I meet her gaze.
“Which of the suitors would you choose for me?”
“I don’t know them well enough to choose for you, but if I went on physical appearance and what their profiles from their Royal Houses say, I’d choose Malark or Kellan.”
“Interesting. You’d be choosing wrong though. As handsome as Malark is, he kisses like a lizard eating its prey, and he’s hungry for the throne.”
The women behind us break into brief giggles. Glancing at them, I give a stern expression.
“Nothing that is spoken in this room leaves this room. Understood?”
“Completely,” Lenny replies. The other two ladies nod in agreement, their expressions seemingly sincere.
“Kellan would make a good choice. However, there isn’t great sexual chemistry between us.”
“That can change,” my mother insists.
“I’d rather not force it. I prefer it to be natural.”
“All right. How about Luther and Riorrick?”
“Luther is intelligent, passionate, and still a mystery to me. Riorrick is kind, thoughtful, and would care for his people, but when it comes to me, I’m not sure we’re a good match.”
“Why not?”
“He doesn’t have a fire in him.”
“A fire? What do you mean?”
“He lacks the drive, passion, strength, and adventure I crave in a man.”
“He looks quite strong to me, and based on his trial, I’d say he has drive and can be adventurous.”
Taking a drink, she looks at me over her glass as though she’s made a profound point.
“Time will tell.”
“Who did your body react to during the splendor ceremony?”
Rolling my eyes, I lean my head back and ignore her question.
“Fiora?”
“That’s none of your business.”
“It’s completely my business. It’s my duty to help you choose a man who will be both a great King and a loving husband.”
“What if I don’t choose any of them?” My gaze snaps to hers, curious of her response.
“You’d be a fool. There’s a King and husband in at least one of those men if not more. Why in Anauka would you not choose one?”
“Why do I need to choose one? Why do you believe I need a man by my side to rule Anauka? I would have the Royal Faction and my advisors. Why add the opinion of another man who could end up disagreeing with how I want to rule? What if my husband became my worst nemesis? Why not let me choose whom I want to marry? Why not let me choose true love?”
“Stop this nonsense!” Setting her glass down on the edge, it makes a sharp ting. “Every woman needs her desires satisfied, and every ruler needs someone to balance them and keep them grounded. These men are the best Anauka has to offer. You’ll choose one and do what is right for Anauka. Stop being a selfish girl and think of your territory and your people.”
Setting my glass down, I rise from the bench to leave the pool.
“Darling,” my Nina calls sweetly.
“Where do you think you’re going?” my mother asks, the irritation in her voice evident.
“Back to my room. I don’t need your supervision. I have no intention of losing my purity to any of those men.”
“But you’ll consider losing it to Matheas?”
“Melinda!” Nina chides.
My mother’s words abruptly stop my movement.
“Why would you say that? I wouldn’t give my purity to any man. I would lose everything.”
“I see the way he looks at you with such longing, and now you’re fighting to convince me you should be allowed to marry whomever you want. I’m not naïve, Fiora. I know you care for him.” She points to the bench. “Sit down.”
I do, and we both take a breath, calming ourselves.
“Whatever your feelings are for him, you can’t let them cloud your judgment. You’re going to be crowned Queen soon. Your desire for him will need to be set aside. Your first priority should be to your territory and your people, not your crush on a lifelong friend. I understand what draws you to him. Matheas is a stunning man, sexually experienced, strong, capable, and has your full trust. I understand the appeal, but he is not the only man capable of satisfying you and being King. The Royal suitors have been raised and trained to be King. Matheas has been trained to be your loyal advisor and bodyguard. He may be an impeccable arms man, but he is not meant to be King. The Royal houses would balk at your decision to marry him. You’d lose their loyalty. They would work against you to dethrone you and put one of their own sons in your place. Why put yourself through such tribulation when you can tactfully choose a man who will be loyal to both you and the crown?”
With tears dampening my eyes, I stare back at her cerulean blues, filled with a mixture of concern and frustration for her own daughter.
“I…”
Words are caught in my throat, and I struggle to come up with a reply. As similar as I am to my father, I know I gained my quick, tactical wits from my mother. She’s a master of debate and has me tightly in her crosshairs.
“It’s something you seriously need to think about, Fiora. Not choosing one of your suitors could destroy everything you’ve worked for. It could destroy your reign.”
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
FIORA
Entering my father’s sitting room, he stands and outstretches his long arms. Falling into them, I soak up the warmth and comfort of his hug. Releasing me, he sits and motions for me to take the chair next to him. Before us are two plates filled with delicious smelling breakfast food. Behind the table, the morning sun bursts through the glass window, casting warm rays over both of us.
“You seem thoughtful this morning.”
Curious eyes roam over my face. Lifting my fork, I gather a slice of ham.
“I am. About many things.”
“Share with me your thoughts and concerns.”
“I’m torn between what is expected of me and what I want. No matter what choice I make, I’m going to get hurt.”
“Being a monarch comes with great responsibility, but if your actions are intelligently placed, you could achieve both.” Staring at me, he admires my face with a father’s affection. “You want to be loved, don’t you?”
“I do, by both my people and my King.”
“As long as you make choices that keep the people of Anauka safe and prosperous, they will love you. Having someone by your side you can trust and who will protect you is what you’ll need for yourself. A great monarch can’t rule her house if she’s miserable.”
Lower
ing my fork, I take a breath.
“Sometimes, I wonder if you’re the only person who understands me.”
With a loving touch, his hand pats mine.
“What else is on your mind?”
“Belore. He’s not the kind of man to stop going after what he wants. Have you heard from King Beckett?”
“No, I have not.” He takes a bite, then continues. “I have the same concerns as you. King Beckett isn’t as forward and bullheaded as his son, but he does worship his son as I do you. I fear he’ll make a poor decision to please his son.”
“I assume you’ve already increased security on the Iowan border?”
“I have.”
“His trade route is through ours. We can systematically demolish all trade in and out of Iowan, putting his territory at serious risk if he were to make a move against us.”
“They know this and will probably prepare an alternative source for trade if they attack.”
“We should send drones to scout.”
“And if the drones are spotted, what will be our explanation to King Beckett?”
The door to my father’s sitting room opens. Tether enters, his brows tightly knitted together on his thin face.
“Your Highness.”
“Yes, Tether, what is it?”
“An invitation. The date of Prince Belore’s coronation has been changed. They’re having it much sooner.”
My father clicks his soul band. The screen appears, and with a few swipes, he brings up the virtual invitation. As he reads it, his eyes grow wide. With a click, the screen disappears. My father’s gaze drifts out the window, deep in thought.
“How soon?” I ask them.
“One week,” Tether replies.
“We need to expect Belore has a plan.” My father’s attention returns to Tether. “Send the suicide drones to scout Iowan. I don’t want Belore or King Beckett to have any evidence we sent them.”
“Done. And your reply to the invitation?”
“Queen Melinda and I will attend.”
“What about the request for Fiora to attend?”
“She’ll be preparing for her own coronation.”
My gaze whips to my father.
“We’re moving up Fiora’s coronation. Two weeks from now.”
“Father?”
His strong hand covers mine, comforting me.
“It’s necessary, my sweet. You’re vulnerable as a Princess, but not as a Queen. The change in Belore’s coronation is a sign he intends to take action.”
“It’s before the time Anauka calls for a monarch to be crowned. How will the Royal Faction react?”
“We’ll vote on it. I know my decision will be favored,” he assures me. “The Royal Faction is eager for you to choose one of their sons as King.”
“But I—”
“Worry about that later, my sweet. Your successful coronation is the first priority.”
Turning to Tether, he addresses him with experienced authority.
“Prepare invitations to the neighboring Monarchs, Anaukin Royal houses, and prepare the notification to the Anaukin journal. Have them ready to be sent the moment I give you the word. Prepare a meeting with the Royal Faction at lunch today. Notify Queen Melinda of the invitation to Belore’s coronation and have her brought to my sitting room.”
Facing me, his tone changes.
“My sweet.” He takes my hand in both of his, cupping it protectively. “Spend time with your suitors today. Enjoy the day. Let me handle everything from here.”
Appetite lost, my eyes stare back at him, no doubt revealing the whirlpool of emotions I’m feeling.
“It’s too fast, Father. The decisions I need to make, I’m not ready.”
“You are ready, Fiora. You were born to rule.”
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
FIORA
Standing atop a pedestal, I keep as still as I can as the seamstress measures and pins my soon-to-be coronation gown. Fabric billowing past my feet, the train extends a foot behind me. I expected the dress to be heavy and awkward, but thankfully, it’s not. The cream fabric is thin, light, and decorated with elegant lace.
To my right, Demerick watches with amused interest as the seamstress tugs at the fabric on my chest. My breast nearly pops out, and he lowers his head to avoid staring. A frown pulls my lips down as I think of Matheas. I haven’t seen him in days. My mother has done everything in her power to occupy him with tasks, deliberately keeping him from me. I know what she’s doing. She hopes his absence will direct my feelings toward one of the suitors. I admit, I have grown fond of the men, but not seeing Matheas has only increased my longing for him.
“Nearly finished, Princess.” The kind seamstress, with her large, bold cerulean eyes, pixy blond haircut, and beautifully aged face, places another pin. “I just want to ensure this dress looks flawless on you.”
“Thank you, Karina. I appreciate your attention to detail.”
“Of course, Princess.”
Another pin and she steps back to look me over.
“We’re finished. I’ll help you out of the gown, then begin sewing. Tomorrow, we’ll need to do another fitting.”
“I’ll arrange it,” I assure her.
“Excellent. Let’s get you out of it.”
Karina stands on the stool, untying the corset back. The gown drops below my chest, and Demerick’s gaze lingers over my breasts. Desire filling his eyes, he watches as Karina carefully lowers the dress. The door to my room slides open, and Matheas enters, taking in the scene. Gaze fixed on Demerick, he scowls.
“You’re dismissed.”
Demerick clears his throat, his stance becoming stiff. “Do I need an updated report?”
“Meet with Pollo, he’ll give you a report.”
Demerick nods to Matheas, giving me a fleeting glance on his way out. Matheas looks up at me, his gaze becoming warm and affectionate. Butterflies flutter throughout my stomach, and my mouth forms a welcoming smile. Walking to my closet, he enters, returning with my red robe. As soon as I step out of the coronation gown, I slide into the arms of the soft fabric he has open and waiting for me.
Karina gathers the gown and her supplies, mumbling to herself about needed adjustments before leaving. The moment the door closes behind her, Matheas brings the digital screen up on his soul band and locks the door. Screen disappearing, he wraps his arms around me, one hand on my ass and the other firmly at my neck, both pulling me tight against him. Arousal ignites at my core, rushing pleasure through my body. Nipples tingling, I lose myself to the feel of his lips claiming mine. We stay locked in this moment, hands aggressively roaming each other, desperate for the contact we’ve yearned for. Touching over his hardening erection, he moans into my mouth.
“I’ve craved the taste of you on my lips for days.”
“Let’s not waste the time we have together. Lay with me. I need you,” I breathe over his mouth, my lips swollen and tingly from his kiss.
Gripping my thighs, he lifts me, wrapping my legs around his waist, putting my center against his erection. Arms around his neck, I’m carried to my bed. He sets me down, lifting his uniform shirt off, revealing his sculpted chest.
“You know I haven’t intentionally stayed away from you, don’t you?” His expressive eyes display a hint of worry mixed with his carnal gaze.
“I do. It’s my mother’s doing.” Removing the robe from my shoulders, I let the fabric fall.
Matheas lies on the mattress next to me, caressing up my bare back, giving me pleasure with his touch.
“Straddle me, Fi. I’m showing you something new.”
Robe behind me, I lift my leg over his waist. Hands firm on my ass and thighs, he pulls me forward, placing my center over his face. Instinctively, I brace my palms on the mattress holding myself up as his mouth covers my clit. Sucking feverishly, he pauses to blow, nip, then suck again. My eyes pinch shut as my only focus becomes the pleasure he’s giving me.
Massaging between my ass cheeks, his finge
rs go in slow, circular movements, adding to the sensations my body is experiencing. Sliding a finger into my hole, he moves in and out, pleasuring me and stretching me as his mouth works me into a frenzy.
Satisfied cries spew from my lips, my orgasm on the edge, teasing me with my desperate need to release. Rocking over his face, I tremble, lost in euphoria as my orgasm overwhelms me.
Setting me back on his waist, he wipes his mouth, his expression one of satisfaction.
“Do you still have the cream I got you?”
“I do,” I grin. “It’s in the drawer.” I point to my nightstand.
Flipping me over with ease, I lie on my back as he opens the drawer and finds the tube. Collecting some of it, he reaches between my legs, spreading the cool ointment onto my backside. Lips covering mine, he massages my tight opening, increasing my arousal for him once more. Unfastening his pants, I free his erection, stroking it in my hand. Sliding down the bed, I pull away from his massaging to take his hard cock in my mouth. Sucking hard, he groans above me.
“Fi…” his voice sounds strained.
Cupping my chin gently, he pulls out and removes his boots and pants.
“Turn over for me,” he tells me as he climbs back on the mattress.
I do, putting my ass in the air and my arms on the mattress in front of me. Strong hands massage my ass cheeks. Spreading them, I feel his head apply pressure. With an easy thrust, he slides into my tight opening. Gripping my hips, he pushes farther in, then pulls back to slide into me again. A moan escapes both of us as our bodies take in the pleasure of coming together.
With each thrust, my body experiences an overwhelming sensation of fullness. Fisting the blanket beneath me, I bite my lip as his pace quickens, the pleasure astounding me. The sound of his thrusts against my ass echo with our moans of satisfaction. Reaching around my hip, his fingers massage my clit, tipping me over the edge. Soon another cry escapes me as my orgasm erupts from my body. Several more thrusts and I feel him thicken. A low groan sounds behind me as he reaches his own orgasm.
Carefully pulling out, he lays us on our sides, covering us with the blanket. Arm around me, he pulls me tight against him. With his free hand, he takes mine in his, raising it to his lips, giving tender kisses to my fingertips.