"Nux, what are you doing?"
Rose's voice trembled, her tone sharp but carrying a softness that betrayed the heat climbing up her neck.
The corner of Nux's mouth curved as he leaned close, his breath teasing the delicate curve of her ear. His warm exhale brushed against her skin, and the mighty Queen of the Soulforge Citadel—who could make nations bow with a single command—shuddered like a mortal girl caught off guard.
"What do you think I'm doing?" Nux's voice was low, wickedly playful. "If you guess right… I'll let you go."
Her cheeks burned crimson, her violet eyes shining like pools ready to spill. She bit her lip and spat softly, voice quivering, "Nux, you… you're too bad."
Her lashes fluttered, a rare hesitation seizing her. "How am I supposed to guess? What if I say it… and you just tell me I'm right, and then—"
"And then what?" Nux's golden eyes glinted, catching her stammer like prey caught in a net.
