by Vivian Wood
Brushing his lips against mine, he teases me, pushing me out into a spin again, then pulling me back to finish the kiss. Around us, the dancers have created a circle, watching us in awe. Moving in fluid steps, he guides me around the dance floor, our eyes locked on one another. Between us, the heat is palpable, the desire strong. The tempo increases, and he pulls me close to his chest as he spins us around the dance floor.
At the crest of the song, he slows us, dipping me gracefully. Bringing me back to his chest, he kisses me, unleashing the passion that has been building through the dance. The crowd around is a blur as it hums with cheers. My body is lost to the moment, his lips the only focus.
When we separate, my chest rises and falls with the heat of my arousal. One more sweet kiss and he takes my hand, guiding me off the dance floor. The majority of the guests clap in a chorus around us. Luther doesn’t stray his gaze from mine. It’s as if the entire room of people don’t exist to him, and for a few minutes, I experience the same feeling.
Kellan approaches and Luther smiles politely, giving my hand to him. Kellan winks, leading me back to the dance floor. With a slower song playing, we ease into a simple dance.
“I can’t keep up with what I just witnessed, but I’ll do my best.”
“Committed to the end, aren’t you?”
“Entirely. I was worried for you when my House told me you were obligated to choose a suitor the day of your coronation, but watching the chemistry between you and Luther develop and that dance, I believe he should be your choice.”
“I don’t want to choose. I wanted to be free to decide that on my own, later on.”
“You hoped to choose Matheas one day?”
“Yes.”
“I’m so sorry, sweet Fi. It breaks my heart to know this isn’t what you want. What are you going to do?”
“I’m still struggling with that decision.”
“He’ll forgive you. Matheas knows this isn’t what you wanted.”
Tears well in my eyes as we swirl around the dance floor.
“I have to let go of him, and it’s tearing me apart.”
Kellan puts my head against his chest.
“Ssh, don’t cry, sweet Fi. Not now.”
Quickly wiping the tears away, I hide my emotion-filled face in his chest. To everyone else, we appear to be having a romantic moment. Hand rubbing my back, he leans his chin against my head, comforting me the best he can.
“I don’t imagine Matheas will want to quit being your bodyguard. Perhaps you can have both of them.” Looking up at him, his smile is mischievous. “Don’t tell me you wouldn’t like it. I know I would.”
Laughing, I shake my head at him.
“That’s the smile I like to see.”
At our sides, Riorrick comes into view, heading toward the dance floor and us. Kellan gathers my face in his hands, pressing his lips to mine. Sliding his tongue between my lips, he gives the appearance of a romance between the two of us. Leaning next to my ear, he speaks for only me to hear.
“Is it bad I’m getting used to it?”
Smiling, I laugh.
“Just as bad as me enjoying your kiss.”
Kellan taps my nose with his finger.
“I told you not to fall for me.”
“I can’t help it. You’re adorable.”
“I know. I’m cursed with these good looks and charm.”
Caressing my arm, he leaves just as Riorrick approaches.
Taking Kellan’s place, Riorrick positions his hand on my lower back and holds my hand in his.
“I know this will be our last time spent together, so I wanted to enjoy a final dance.”
Guilt becomes an uncomfortable twitch in my gut.
“I’m sorry, Riorrick. You’re an incredible man. I hope I haven’t hurt you.”
“I’m disappointed you and I couldn’t find love, but I don’t have any animosity toward you. You can’t force something that isn’t there.”
“I hope you’ll consider joining the Royal Faction. You would benefit the Anaukin people greatly.”
“At the beginning of this, I would have thought the idea wasn’t for me, but after meeting you and the conversations we’ve had, I believe you’re right. When I return home, I’ll be enrolling my name.”
Together, we continue to move eloquently around the dance floor. Smiling at him, I admire his sweet and handsome face I’ve grown fond of the last few weeks.
“I think that is an excellent choice. If you accept, I’ll send an endorsement seal with you.”
“This is why it’s so easy to fall for you. You’re beautiful and generous. I accept your offer.”
Leaning in, he gives a tender kiss to my cheek.
“I look forward to the next time we meet.”
Leaving the dance floor, I follow Riorrick. Within a few steps from the dance floor, I’m stopped by Malark, looking handsome in his navy suit.
“May I have this dance?”
“Of course,” I reply, giving him my hand.
Returning to the dance floor, we easily move into the proper technique for the song.
“Can I ask you for an honest answer?”
“Yes.”
“What is it about me that turned you away?”
“You did nothing wrong if that’s what you think. I’ve enjoyed our time together. It’s as simple as the chemistry wasn’t there between us.”
“There isn’t anything I could’ve done differently to win your heart?”
“No, you should return home, knowing you’re worthy of any woman. You’re handsome, talented in many areas, politically intelligent, and you’re ambitious. Had there been the right chemistry between us, you would’ve been a good choice for me.”
“I’m going to return home regretting it wasn’t me you chose.”
“Don’t. You’ll find the woman who suits you perfectly, and I’ll become a distant memory.”
“There’s no forgetting you, Fiora. You’re every man’s desire.”
“I’m a fantasy for men. The reality is, I’m just as flawed as everyone else.”
“I’ll let you believe that.”
Kissing his cheek, I smile at him.
“Your flattery has been unrivaled.”
Looking me in the eyes, his own fill with sadness.
“I’m going to miss your quick wit.”
“Then make sure to visit me so we can continue our debates. I need a friend to keep me on my toes.”
“That’s something I would enjoy. With my move to the capital, I’m sure we’ll be seeing each other often.”
“I assume your House supported your enrollment into the Royal Faction then?”
“They did.”
“Congratulations. I’m pleased to hear it.”
“I’m glad you are, but you might not be when I don’t take it easy on you.”
“I wouldn’t expect anything less.”
The song ends, and Malark raises my hand, giving the customary kiss of respect.
“It’s been a pleasure, Fiora.”
“It has.”
Returning to my table, I quench my thirst with water. Around me, my family chatters in conversation, and I grow weary, my heart unsettled as I sit there watching everyone. A warm hand touches my shoulder. The feel of his lips grazing my ear. My body recognizes his touch instantly.
“You look exquisite.”
Rising from my chair, I admire him in his sharp black uniform, worn for special occasions like this. Reaching his eyes, I observe every emotion he’s feeling—sorrow, adoration, and enthrallment.
“I couldn’t go without seeing you, not on the most important night of your life. We’ve spent too much time planning for it.”
“I’m grateful you came to see me. You have no idea how much I hoped you would.”
Unable to look away, we speak unspoken words, our eyes communicating for us. The desire to embrace one another is palpable, our breathing elevated. In his eyes, I see the longing, the need to hold me.
> “There’s so much I want to say.”
Gently taking my elbow, he leads me away from the tables into the dim lighting. Our conversation appears as palace affairs to the unknowing eye. Lowering his hand, he grazes my fingers. The gentle touch sends a warming sensation up my arm.
“I know. So do I. The only thing you need to know right now is I’m never leaving you. I swore an oath to protect and advise you. That doesn’t stop after tonight. Even if I can’t sit on the throne next to you, I’ll still be at your side.”
“I couldn’t take it if you left me.”
“I won’t. Whoever you choose tonight, they’ll never convince me to leave you. I love you like the day loves the sun. One cannot be without the other.”
With all my strength, I fight back the outpouring of tears. Fingers gently lacing through his, I stare up at his beautiful cerulean blues, feeling the warmth of his love just through his gaze.
“I love you.”
“I know you do, and I understand this isn’t what you wanted. I’ll never hold it against you.”
To my left, Belore appears in my periphery. Reluctantly, we release our joined fingers, my chest aching the moment our contact severs. As he approaches, his stare is deadly, calculated. My body stiffens as he nears.
“Princess,” Taking my hand, he kisses it. “I was disappointed you could not attend my coronation, but I came to discover you were busy planning your own. Perhaps with our new positions, we’ll both be more willing to work together.”
“Surely, we will be,” I lie.
Eyes dropping to my chest, a smirk appears before his attention returns to my eyes.
“You’re striking in that gown.”
“Thank you.”
“Will you honor me with a dance?”
“Of course.”
My skin crawls from the thought alone. Looking at Matheas, I give him the expression he knows. As Belore leads me through the center of the room, Matheas stalks the outside, keeping a close eye on Belore and his two guards standing on the outside edge of the room.
Pulling me tight against him, he takes my hand, leading us into the customary dance matching the current song.
“The fact you’ll be crowned tonight pleases me.”
“How so?”
“All my dealings will now be directly with you.”
“I know you haven’t forgiven me for the groin shot, so why are you being so pleasant to me?”
“I feel we can accomplish great things together.”
“Like what?”
“Heirs.”
In my attempt to jerk away from him, he grips me tight, firmly keeping me in place. Grazing his lips against my ear, he speaks with dangerous confidence.
“Be careful who you choose tonight. The poor bastard won’t get to live long.”
Fear rolls up my back, an endless wave of discomfort.
“Why are you doing this?”
His heated breath grates against my ear. “Rejecting my proposal humiliated me. Then you took it a step further, assaulting me in front of my soldiers, and let’s not forget the beating you instructed your arms men to give me. Now all I see when I look at you is a bitch I need to break. Whether it’s your territory or my cock shoved into your pussy, you will surrender to me.”
“I suggest you take your filthy hands off me before I have you choking on your balls again. I’ll never submit to you. You’re a spoiled and arrogant tyrant.”
Yanking myself from his hold, I search for Matheas. Belore’s grip circles around my wrist so tightly, I grimace.
“When the time comes, I’m going to make you bleed.”
“You can either leave Anauka voluntarily or I’ll happily have you forced out.”
Demerick and Matheas are at my side instantly. Luther joins them. Each of them notices me rubbing my sore wrist. Belore puts up his hand, his smirk devilish.
“No need for theatrics, gentleman. My father and I were just leaving.”
Departing the dance floor, he approaches his father, telling him something private. With a snicker, His Majesty King Beckett rises from his chair. Both pass us, their stares menacing. The two guards join them, walking out of the ballroom behind them.
“Make sure they leave,” I order.
Matheas nods to Demerick, and he leaves the ballroom in the same direction as their group.
“Let me see your wrist,” Luther reaches for it, examining the red marks. Gently, he rubs my skin, soothing the ache.
“What did he say to you?” Matheas asks, his tone urgent and worried.
“You were right about him. He’s intent on hurting me. He wasn’t short on threats.”
Matheas looks directly at Luther.
“If you think I’m leaving, I won’t be. You better come to terms with that.”
“I already knew I would have to.”
Staring at them, I feel like the outsider of a conversation they’ve already had. Unable to ask, my attention is drawn to my father approaching, his expression troubled.
“Did King Belore and His Majesty leave the Imperial Ball?”
“Yes, I requested he leave after he initiated several threats.”
My father’s attention switches to Matheas immediately.
“Did you have him escorted out of Anauka?”
“Yes, Demerick is taking care of it as we speak.”
“He’s dangerous, Matheas. She’ll need your protection, now more than ever.”
“And she’ll have it,” he assures my father.
The corner of his mouth lifts as he places a hand on Matheas’s shoulder.
“I’d trust no one else more.”
Luther watches their congenial gestures and conversation, observing it with intelligent eyes. He’s witnessing firsthand the level of trust and respect my father has for Matheas.
“King Gregory, may I speak with you alone?” Luther asks.
“Of course, but it must be quick. Fiora’s coronation is about to begin.”
“Of course, Your Highness.”
The two walk off, and I wish I could listen in on that conversation.
“What do you think they’re talking about?” I ask Matheas.
“If there’s a chance another arms man is capable of guarding you would be my guess.”
When I look at him with a frown, he winks.
“You have nothing to fear. Your father won’t replace me, especially not now. Starting tomorrow, we’ll need to begin plans to deal with Belore. How exactly did he threaten you?”
“He wants to murder my future King, rape and possess me, and claim my territory.”
With anger filling his eyes, they narrow, his thoughts moving quickly.
“I have no doubt he’ll attack Anauka and come for you. We’ll need to reinforce our border and take proactive actions rather than reactive. We’ll need to consider attacking his territory first, using his own declaration as justification. You’ll need the support of the Royal Houses which will be difficult to receive with it being your first act as Queen, but your father and I will help you convince them.”
“I believe I can always do what is necessary with you by my side.”
Matheas steps closer, the heat between us unable to be ignored. Staring down at me, his eyes say everything he can’t.
“Fiora.”
My gaze moves to my father.
“It’s time,” he mouths.
Matheas takes my hand, bringing it to his lips, the sudden pain in his eyes excruciating to see. When he let’s go, my heart is swallowed by misery. An echoing bell rings through the ballroom, and all sit to witness the coronation. Leaving Matheas behind, I place my hand in the crook of my father’s arm. We start at the end of the majesty’s path and walk with poise to the altar. There, a royal officiate awaits me.
Stepping up onto the raised altar, my father leaves my side to join my mother. Together they stand to my left. To my right are the four suitors, given prior direction on how the coronation proceeding would go.
The officiate
hands me my first item, a heavy golden staff with an agate stone embedded in the top. Turning me to face the public, he begins his oration. Holding the staff in my hands, together in front of me, I look out over the crowd, searching for the one face I crave to see.
“The Anaukin people are gathered here today to witness the passing of the crown from King to daughter. Having succeeded in her trials and believed suitable for ruling our territory, Fiora of House Tridore holds the Anaukin staff, a sign to us she will continue to bring our territory stability, strength, and balance.”
As taught to me in preparation of this day, I turn to face him for my next item. Holding out my hand, he places an emerald ring on my right ring finger. Again, I shift to face the public.
“Fiora of House Tridore has accepted the ring of life, a sign to us she will continue to bring our territory growth and wealth.”
Turning to him for the last time, I lower myself, tilting my head toward him. Lifting the last item from the altar stand, he places the weighted, jeweled crown atop my head. Rising slowly, I face the public.
“Fiora of House Tridore is adorned with the Anaukin crown. By accepting it, she has committed to ruling our territory with wisdom, honor, sensibility, and irrefutable devotion. Do you, Fiora of House Tridore accept your duty willingly?”
With a breath, I look out over the audience with confidence.
“I do.”
“Then Anauka accepts you as her Queen.”
A chorus of clapping moves through the ballroom. To my right, the royal officiate lays out the royal certificate. Taking the pen handed to me, I endorse the bottom, securing my fate with a simple stroke of ink. Folding the top and end toward one another, he seals it with the Royal stamp, then places it inside a box with a two-part code—fingerprint and numeric.
By this time, the clapping and cheers have quieted. Setting the protected royal certificate aside, he gestures toward the second crown on the altar. It’s time to give up the one thing I’ve always wanted—the choice to choose who I want as my King.
Every conversation, every person’s fear of my choice fills my heart, making it heavy with burden. Looking out at the crowd, I find Matheas standing to the side of the royal tables, the pain in his eyes so fierce, I can feel it from where I stand. Heart shattering, I look over at the four suitors, hope filling the eyes of only one man. Holding my gaze hostage, he pleads for my heart to be his, and I feel that pull.