The large doors of Soren's chambers shut with a solid thud as Seraphina stormed out. Left alone, Soren chuckled at her dramatic behavior, shaking his head. Still seated on the bed, he ran his fingers slowly through his tousled silky hair, amusement flickering in his eyes.
Eventually, he rose to his full height, revealing his sculpted torso—smooth, lean, defined. He stretched lazily, the faint creak of his shoulders the only sound in the room. Then his gaze fell to the bed, and his smile widened slightly as he reminisced. Her scent. Her chaotic charm. The way she moved, pouted, clung to the sheets.
Last night had been… amusing. Unexpected. And above all, wonderful.
Without dwelling too long, Soren strolled into his bath chamber, where the maids had already begun preparing his bath. He gave them a roguish smile, pleased, then slipped into the water, sinking beneath the surface with a satisfied sigh.
_______
In another wing of the palace, Lucian had arranged a private breakfast in his quarters. A royal red, sleeveless gown had been sent to Vivienne—elegant, plain, yet dignified. Maids had helped her dress and prepare for the morning.
Lucian sat alone at a long table, his thoughts spinning, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips. He poured himself a cup of dark tea, savoring its warmth as he thought about the woman whose presence had disturbed his ever-calm mind.
Soon, a knock sounded at the door.
"She's here, your highness," a guard announced.
"Let her in."
Vivienne entered slowly, her thoughts still swirling from the events of the previous night. Her heart thudded painfully in her chest.
Why do I feel like this? Like I'm about to pass out… oh heavens…
"Good morning, your highness," she said softly, giving a small bow.
Lucian stood, pulling out a chair for her with unusual grace. Once she sat, he returned to his seat. "Good morning, love," he replied, the words casual, yet tinged with something unreadable. His smile was soft—gentler than usual, though it didn't quite reach his cold eyes.
"As always, darling. You look ethereal."
Vivienne couldn't meet his gaze. Her cheeks were burning, and her hands trembled slightly. She gulped hard, trying to keep her composure.
Lucian, noticing her tension, smirked faintly. He straightened his posture. "Have at it," he said, motioning to the variety of foods laid out before them.
As they ate in silence for a moment, Lucian finally spoke. "I've arranged for you and your sister to leave for Cranebrook tomorrow."
Vivienne's hand froze over her spoon. "Oh…" she murmured. She had expected this—of course she had. But… why did her heart sink?
"You don't look too happy," Lucian noted, tilting his head slightly.
"What? No, your highness," she replied quickly, lowering her head. "I'm more than grateful to you for having me and my sister."
Lucian let out a faint scoff. When will she drop these formalities? He took another sip of his tea.
"It was wonderful indeed, having you here… even got to disvirgin those innocent lips," Lucian said flatly, as if commenting on the weather.
Vivienne's eyes widened in horror. "Your highness!" she gasped, choking on her food.
Lucian didn't flinch. He simply handed her a cup of water, a smug smile playing at his lips as he watched her reaction with great interest.
———