Moonlight spilled through the castle windows, casting shadows across the indentations of Nel’s abs as he stood in the doorway. My breath caught at the sight of him—shirtless, dangerous, and devastatingly handsome. The silver light laced the contours of his muscles, still glistening with evidence of activities I refused to contemplate.
His blue robe hung loosely from broad shoulders, revealing more than it concealed. I fought against fixating on his appeal—the way his body seemed carved from marble, how his presence sucked all the air from the room. Heat bloomed traitorously between my thighs, and I pressed them together, hating my body’s betrayal.
“PRINCESS?” Nel’s voice dripped with mock concern. “I heard you tried to force your way into my chambers. How… unbecoming.”
The arrogance in his tone made my blood boil. I straightened my spine, though he still towered over me like a lion before prey. “I did not force—”
“No?” His eyebrows curved into a sardonic arch. “Then what would you call it? A friendly attempt at breaking and entering?”
“I wanted to speak with my future husband,” I said, injecting steel into my voice. “Is that so terrible?”
“Ah.” He leaned against my doorframe, his bare chest catching moonlight in a way that made my mouth go dry. “And it couldn’t wait until morning? Or were you hoping to catch me in a more… intimate moment?”
Heat flooded my cheeks. “You were absent at my arrival.”
“And that entitled you to storm my private chambers?” He clicked his tongue. “Spoiled indeed. Welcome to Ustoria, Princess. Here, we have something called boundaries.”
“Boundaries?” I nearly choked on the word. “Like entertaining your lover on the night of your betrothed’s arrival?”
His eyes glittered dangerously. “Jealous already? My, my. We’ve only just met.”
“Jealous?” I scoffed, though my heart hammered traitorously. “Don’t flatter yourself. I merely expected basic courtesy.”
“Basic courtesy?” Nel’s laugh was low and cruel. “Like barging into my room uninvited? Tell me, Princess, do they not teach manners in Agarta, or are you a special case?”
Each word stung like a slap. “You’re insufferable.”
“And you’re transparent.” He pushed off the doorframe, closing the distance between us until I could feel the heat radiating from his skin. “Let me make something clear, spoiled. This marriage is political. Nothing more. Your… feelings, or lack thereof, mean nothing to me.”
His proximity sent unwanted shivers down my spine. I forced myself to meet his gaze. “Good. Then we understand each other perfectly.” I crossed my arms lifting my chin defiantly to drive in my words.
“Do we?” His fingers brushed my ear as he tucked back a stray curl, the casual touch making my skin tingle. “Because from where I’m standing, you seem… conflicted.”
“Never,” I retorted, the word brittle on my tongue as I shoved his hand away. “This marriage is purely political. Nothing more. Nothing less, you insufferable…fool.” My heart hammered against my ribs, but I lifted my chin, clinging to a fragile facade of composure. The subtle tremor that ran through me betrayed the lie, a secret shared only with the shadows that danced in the moonlight.
“I’ll see you tomorrow, Princess. I’ll leave you to your… contemplations.” His voice was laced with a sardonic amusement that grated on my nerves. He turned to leave, the moonlight catching the sharp angles of his face, and for a heartbeat, I saw a flicker of something unreadable in his eyes. Then it was gone, replaced by the familiar mask of cool indifference. He vanished into the shadows, leaving me alone with the echoes of his words and the unsettling awareness of the dangerous game we were both playing.
—————
Three unfamiliar faces poured through my chamber door with feathered feet. The hour called for breakfast and a hot bath, though my head still throbbed from Nel’s midnight visit—his bare chest and cruel words haunting me like persistent ghosts.
The tallest maid, voluptuous with jazzy brown waves, stepped forward with a graceful curtsy. “I am Osha, Your Highness. I’ll be your head lady’s maid.” Her voice carried the lilting accent of high-born Ustorians.
She gestured to a willowy girl with blond coils that seemed to float like a cloud, in elegant wardrobe. “This is Siren, our resident fashion expert.” Finally, she pointed to a petite maid with peculiar amber eyes that seemed to glow in the morning dew. “And that’s… Fay” Osha snapped as Fay moved to arrange fresh towels, aloof to the introduction. “Must you lumber about like a newborn calf? We can’t all float like proper vampires, but do try to pretend you belong here.”
I watched Fay’s shoulders hunch as she carefully placed the linens, her movements becoming painfully precise.“Honestly,” Osha continued, rushing to place a breakfast tray nearby, “it’s beyond me why they let your sort serve royalty. One mishap and you’ll shame us all.” She bumped past Fay deliberately, causing the maid to stumble against a chair. “Can’t even maintain your balance? Pathetic.”
My fingers curled into the silk sheets as anger rose in my throat.
“Half-breed,” Osha muttered with a sneer, straightening the breakfast settings with unnecessary force. “Make yourself useful and draw a bath. Siren, darling, fetch a dress. Our princess needs to look presentable for His Highness this morning.”
“You have no right to speak to her that way!” The words exploded from my lips as I threw back my covers. “While you are in my presence, never—ever—address her like that again!”
Osha’s eyes widened, genuine shock replacing her previous contempt. “My sincerest apologies, Your Highness, if my words to Fay upset you, but she’s just a half-breed.”
“A half what?”
“A vampire mixed with minx,” Osha said, her lip curling in disgust. “Both our kind alike shares the same disgust toward them for obvious reasons. The mixing of blood dilutes our noble heritage. They’re not… pure.”
“Pure?” The word tasted like poison on my tongue. “You dare speak of purity while treating her like she’s beneath you? Let me make something painfully clear.” I rose from the bed, letting my night dress fall around me like armor. “If I catch you talking to any mixed blood like that again, I’ll have you arrested for treason. Do you not understand why I am here?”
Osha’s face paled further, if that was even possible for a vampire. “To bring peace, Your Highness.”
“Exactly!” My voice rang off the stone walls. “She is a symbol of unity, no different than my marriage to the prince. Our children will be mixed blood.” Not by the least. But I need to drive in my point. “Do you have a problem with that too?”
Children. The word hung in the air like morning frost. The vampire royals expected both marriage and heirs, but Father had forbidden it. So why had I mentioned offspring when there was no chance I’d share Nel’s bed? Because Father has a plan…Right? Questions whirled through my mind like autumn leaves. How am I to avoid consummating our marriage? What is his plan? Is this some sort of setup, an attempt to overthrow the vampire’s reign—somehow? But that doesn’t make any sense. Why would he—
“No, your highness.” Osha’s melodic voice cracked as she dropped to the floor, pressing her forehead against its cold surface. Her hands formed a prayer position, trembling slightly. “Please accept my dearest apology, princess. I spoke out of turn, out of… ignorance.”
I watched her hourglass figure bow before me, spine curved in perfect submission. Her voluptuous waves spilled across the marble like spilled wine. A bit extreme, but I’ll take it.
“Get up,” I said, softening my tone. The morning sun caught the tears in Fay’s amber eyes, and something in my chest tightened. “Bring me my food… please?”
Despite our unpleasant exchange, the day marched forward like an unstoppable army. Osha scurried to bring over my breakfast tray, then retreated to a corner where she stood like a beautiful statue. The smell of blueberry pastries filled the air, but my appetite had vanished like morning mist.
After forcing down a few bites, I headed to the bathroom with Siren and Osha trailing behind, collecting my discarded clothes like silent shadows. The steamy bath they’d prepared was infused with rose hip and petals, the water shimmering with oils that caught the light streaming through stained glass windows.
As I sank into the perfumed water, all three maids moved with practiced precision. Osha’s expert hands worked golden honey shampoo through my coils, transforming them into silk beneath her touch. Siren dipped a cloth into what looked like liquid gold, running it along my neck and shoulders until my skin caught the light like dewdrops at dawn.
“For youth,” she explained, pride dancing in her brown eyes. “Though you hardly need it, Your Highness.”
Fay’s touch was gentler, almost reverent, as she scrubbed my skin with an exfoliating soap made from dried rose petals and thorns. The sensation was more refreshing than painful, and I found myself relaxing despite the morning’s tension and last night’s… complications.
An hour later, I stood before the gilt-edged mirror, barely recognizing the creature staring back. The gown they’d chosen was a masterpiece that would make even the proudest peacock envious. Burgundy sheer sleeves stretched to my wrists like wisps of wine-colored fog, while layers of matching fabric poufed from my waist in perfect symmetry. The silk bodice cinched so tight I wondered if breathing was optional in vampire court, pushing my cleavage up where embroidered orchids created a teasing dance of peek-a-boo. A slash of blood-red lip color completed the transformation.
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“You look flawless,” Siren breathed, and I caught the longing in her eyes as she adjusted a fold of fabric. Her fingers lingered on the expensive material, and I understood then—she had an eye for beautiful things because she yearned for them herself. “The prince will be at a loss for words,” she added, stepping back to admire her work.
I managed an angelic twirl, the skirts billowing around me like crimson clouds. I’d maintain my grace and peace in spite of Nel’s nightly indiscretions. I was here for peace nothing more. Though I would rather stay in my room, I refused to cower. I would face him head on. Let him be ruthless.
“Thank you,” I finally said.
A heavy knock rattled the door, and my heart plunged to my silk-clad toes. The moment I’d been dreading had arrived. After last night’s disaster, I needed to face him with steel in my spine and ice in my veins. But my nerves danced like wild things beneath my skin as reality pressed in. Soon, I’d be a vampire’s wife. The same vampire who was as willful as he was arrogant, who’d strutted into my chamber half-naked and mocking. He’d expect consummation after our wedding, and I’d have to find some miracle to avoid it.
Osha opened the door with a flourish, revealing Sunny’s familiar face. He bowed low, and when he straightened, his eyes widened slightly at my appearance.
“The prince awaits you in the yard, Your Highness,” he said, his usually steady voice carrying a note of appreciation.
I lifted my chin and glided forward, channeling every lesson in poise my tutors had drilled into me. The corridors seemed longer this morning, each step bringing me closer to Nel. My stomach twisted as I remembered his bare chest in the moonlight, the way his muscles had rippled as he’d leaned against my doorframe. Stop it! I commanded myself. He’s arrogant, cruel, and currently entertaining his lover in the castle.
But when we emerged into the golden light, and I saw him mounted on a magnificent black stallion, my treacherous heart skipped. He had on a black, white, crisp button up, even a royal jacket, his crown atop his head. I pushed my to the center to emphasize my own power.
Another horse waited beside him, this one a pristine white mare. Horse riding? What game is he playing now?
I approached with measured steps, willing my nerves to steady as I curtsied. “Good morning,” I greeted, keeping my gaze respectfully lowered, though it took every ounce of control not to let my eyes wander over him.
“Don’t you look lovely,” Nel remarked, his voice carrying that familiar blend of charm and arrogance. His compliment caught me off guard, pulling my eyes to meet his.
“Thank you,” I replied, keeping my tone neutral. Don’t let him get under your skin.
“I thought we might tour the castle grounds,” Nel continued, his eyes holding mine with an intensity that made my pulse quicken. “It’s faster by horseback.”
“I’ve never ridden in a gown like this,” I admitted, glancing down at the layers of burgundy fabric swirling around me.
“It’s quite common here,” he assured, a hint of amusement in his smile. “Allow me to help you mount.”
My heart skipped at the thought of his touch. I could handle this, I told myself. But as Nel dismounted and approached, taking my hand with gentle confidence, electricity seemed to spark where our skin met. He lifted me effortlessly onto the white mare, his hands steadying me as I settled into the saddle.
I let out a reluctant sigh when he released his grasp, aligning my thoughts with the task at hand. I maneuvered my dress to a comfortable position, ensuring its length poured gracefully over the horse’s rear.
“Follow me,” Nel instructed, his voice smooth as silk.
We rode through the courtyard, the vibrant garden spiraling around us like a living tapestry. The path led between towering hedges, each intersection a mystery as Nel guided us deeper into the castle grounds.
He finally steered us down a narrower path, his broad shoulders obscuring the view ahead. I found myself observing his movements, the effortless flex of his muscles as he controlled his horse with practiced ease. He occasionally ran his fingers through his dark hair, and I couldn’t help but notice the way his biceps strained against his sleeves.
As if sensing my scrutiny, Nel glanced back with a smirk that sent a blush creeping up my neck. I quickly looked away, seizing the opportunity to start a conversation.
“Who was the woman in your room?”
A sigh escaped his lips, tinged with weariness.
“A topic I wanted to move pass.”
“What did you expect? I hear a woman screaming my fiancé’s name. I deserve an explanation.” I urged my horse closer, my gaze steady.
“Screaming my name?” A low chuckle rumbled in his chest, laced with amusement. “You’re something else, you know that?”
“So I’ve been told. Now, answer the question.”
“She’s… an acquaintance.”
“Clearly. More than an acquaintance, I presume?”
Nel’s expression turned serious. “We were involved. Her name is Ann. She was betrothed to me before you arrived.”
“So, had I not come, you would have married her?” The silence hung heavy between us, thick with unspoken truths. I must look like a complete fool. And she must be angry that I am here.
Nel broke the silence. “There’s no point hiding it. You’re my intended bride, and I prefer honesty. Ann visits from Numoria occasionally.”
“Do you intend to continue seeing her?”
“Do you want me to stop?”
His evasive response irritated me as much as the question itself. I opened my mouth to retort, but Nel pulled his reins, bringing his horse to a halt. I tried to move around him, but his horse shifted, blocking my path. I was forced to stop beside him, his gaze fixed on me, expectant.
Does he expect me to say yes? He seems so certain. Even if I did, would he actually stop? He’s just testing me.
“I came here for one reason: peace. Everything else is irrelevant, including your… dalliances. Now, if you’ll please lead the way, or I’ll find my own.”
Nel’s gaze dropped to the ground, a smirk playing on his lips. The expression lingered before he snapped his reins, urging his horse forward at a quicker pace.
“Tell me, spoiled, have you ever been in love? Is there someone back home?”
The questions caught me off guard, Dom’s face flashing through my mind. He loved me deeply, yet my own feelings remained… stagnant. I’d always blamed it on his lack of title, but that was a lie. Why couldn’t I love you, Dom? What am I not admitting?
“No one is waiting for me. And no, I’ve never been in love. I always assumed marriage would change that.”
“Is that what you expect of me? To change your mind, be faithful, make you fall for me? I thought you were only here for the peace treaty,” he taunted, a devilish grin spreading across his face. The confidence in his expression sent a shiver down my spine. Does he actually think he can make me fall for him? He does seem to enjoy provoking me. By now, his arrogance was grating on my nerves.
“Sorry, spoiled, but a minx has never been my type.”
I urged my horse forward, matching his pace. “Let me finish. I never expected to marry a vampire, so your preferences are irrelevant. I’ll repeat myself: sleep with whomever you like. I don’t care.”
Nel rode on, seemingly unaffected. His indifference fueled my frustration. I wanted to scream, tell him how much I dread this marriage. Me, not his type? You’re a soulless corpse!
We reached a fork in the path, three small bridges converging on a field of roses. A hazy, fog-shrouded forest loomed in the distance. The weather had shifted dramatically, the sky now a somber gray.
We met in the center of the field, our horses grazing on the lush grass. Nel snapped his reins, his horse prancing playfully beneath him. A genuine smile – a rarity – touched his lips as he nuzzled his cheek against his horse’s mane. Their bond was palpable.
Before I could speak, he dismounted gracefully and picked something up from the ground.
“A blood rose for the princess,” he said, extending the crimson flower toward me.
“Blood rose?” I couldn’t help but inhale its sweet fragrance, earning a pleased grin from him.
“My mother and I planted these when I was young.” Nel swept his arm across the field of red blooms. “Now they’re everywhere. They’re medicinal, actually. I could survive on these for weeks without—”
“Digging your fangs into someone’s neck?” The words left my mouth before I could stop them. I watched him draw in a long breath through his nose, clearly trying to maintain his composure.
When he spoke, his voice was eerily calm. “We’re not the bloodthirsty monsters you seem to think we are. Anyone caught doing such crimes faces severe punishment.”
Heat rose to my cheeks. “Only recently! Your kingdom never cared about murdering my people before. I’ve heard the stories – innocent lives taken without consequence. And now you expect me to believe this marriage changes that? Well, as your wife, I’ll make damn sure you enforce those laws and punish anyone who harms my kind.”
“Those are already my intentions.” Nel’s jaw tightened. “I don’t need you policing me. So many misconceptions about our feeding habits. Let me be clear: we only drink from willing duneers. We can go years without blood if needed. Most of us only drink for healing.” His lips curved into a dangerous smile, eyes crinkling at the corners. “Or pleasure.”
“Pleasure?” The word came out as a whisper.
“The duneer feels it too,” he said, his tone teasing.
My stomach turned as my mind conjured horrific images – Nel’s fangs buried in nameless victims, skin punctured and bleeding. Everything I’d been taught told me vampire bites meant agony and death.
“I don’t believe you.”
Nel scoffed, muttering something under his breath before saying, “You don’t have to. Shall I escort you back? You seem rather set in your opinions about vampires. I won’t waste time trying to change your mind.” His voice had taken on an edge that made my spine stiffen.
“Leave me!” I snapped.
“Now you’re being ridiculous. It’s not safe for you to be alone.”
“I don’t need your protection!”
“Fine!” He mounted his horse in one smooth motion, crossed the bridge, and vanished into the fog.
Part of me felt a twinge of regret watching him go. But vampires didn’t feel emotions, did they? Though he had seemed genuinely upset… No matter. He would survive.
Still astride my horse, I guided him in a slow circle, taking in my surroundings. That’s when I saw it – a shadow at the edge of the forest, barely visible through the mist. I squinted to make sure I wasn’t seeing things. As I blinked multiple times, it was gone.
Ignoring the possibility of a hallucination, I resumed to sightseeing, taking in the beauty of the blood roses. I decided I’d pick a few to take back for decor in my room. As I tried to move my foot, around, I lost my balance and fell over. My scream pierced the air as I slammed against my horse’s side, hanging upside down, a loose set of reins tangled around my ankle while my other foot remained trapped in the stirrup. If I’d fallen just a bit further, my neck would have snapped.
Beneath me, my horse exploded upward out of fear, a thousand pounds of blind panic balanced impossibly between earth and sky.
My horse bolted, trampling the roses as he fled causing My body to whip back and forth like a flag in a storm. I stretched my arms toward the saddle, desperate to pull myself up, but my horse launched himself over a fallen tree. The impact tore my grip loose and slammed me against his ribs.
“Help?” The word was a desperate gasp as my body continued to slam against my horse’s side. “Help me!”
Terror gripped me as we plunged between the trees. Even through my blurred vision, I recognized the twisted branches of the forest. No one would hear me scream here. The reins whipped through the air like snakes, finally swinging within reach. I grabbed for them, but something struck my head hard just as my fingers closed around the leather.
Light exploded behind my eyes. The reins slipped away as I went limp, barely conscious. But in the hazy bacground. There it was again, that black shadow, seemingly floating toward me, like it had anticipated that i’d end up in the forest near death’s wake.
“He—help.” The word barely escaped my lips as my eyes fluttered closed. This was how I would die, I realized. Any moment now, a tree branch would take my head clean off or this shadow figure would swallow me whole. But I couldn’t tell if my thoughts were my own, if I had hit my head too hard.
Then strong arms wrapped around my waist, pulling me upright.
“Princess Loretta? Stay with me.” The voice seemed to come from far away. My rescuer pulled me onto his own horse when he saw I couldn’t stay upright. He cradled me like a child, one arm holding me secure while the other guided his mount. I managed to lift my gaze to his face, and for a moment, I thought I was looking at the divine itself. Then darkness took me, and I knew nothing more.
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