The Glass Stiletto

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The Glass Stiletto A Ravenous Romance™ Once Upon A Time™ Original Publication Rachel Kenley

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A Ravenous Romance™ Original Publication www.ravenousromance.com The Glass Stiletto Copyright © 2008 by Rachel Kenley Ravenous Romance™ 100 Cummings Center Suite 125G Beverly, MA 01915 All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher, except by reviewers who may quote brief excerpts in connection with a review. ISBN-13: 978-1-60777-053-4 This book is a work of fiction, and any resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental.

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Dedication For Cathy Berlin, without whom I never would have started this and Greg Norris, without whom I never would have finished it.

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Chapter One



Air. He needed fresh air, solitude, and ten minutes where he didn’t have to smile

or make small talk with women who wanted to marry him. Since Teodor knew it was inappropriate to run out of a ball held in his honor, he moved as quickly as he could without attracting undue attention or knocking into someone, a nearly impossible feat. If I can rule a kingdom, I can get out of this room, he told himself as he acknowledged another courtier and returned his gaze to the wall of French doors that were his goal. When finally he stepped onto the terrace, he gripped the rail and released what felt like his first deep breath of the night. He was as relieved as if he had escaped from a dungeon. The cool air was even better than he hoped, brisk and crisp, and he knew ten minutes was not going to be long enough. Just thinking about returning was making him tense. As he loosened the neck of his shirt, he took another deep breath, looked up at the full moon and asked, “What next?” As if in answer to his question, a woman appeared on the terrace. He heard her before he saw her. The rapid click of her heels - and he turned to see her racing out of the ballroom even faster than he had. He wondered what, or who, she was escaping from. She watched over her shoulder at the room she had left, so she didn’t notice Teodor until she banged into him. He caught her arms as she stumbled, and although she glanced at him briefly, her gaze kept darting behind her. Her gown was dark purple, cut low in the front to expose her ample cleavage. She was breathing fast, although from running or dancing, he didn’t know. “Are you all right?” he asked. Finally she turned to face him and he noticed her expressive eyes and full lips. He stared at her mouth, and thought he’d imagined it when she said, “Kiss me.”

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“I beg your pardon?” “There is no time for begging. I need you to kiss me now.” Without another word, she grabbed his face in her hands, and took advantage of his surprise to turn around so that his back faced the ballroom, as she brought his mouth to hers. Despite all the predatory single women attending tonight’s event, Teodor stiffened at first, but quickly found himself yielding to the pleasant sensations of her kiss. Her touch was warm and giving. Intrigued both by her actions and his reaction, he dared more. As soon as his mouth opened, her tongue was against his. He could taste the champagne she’d must have sipped earlier. The more he put into the kiss, the more she responded, first with a sigh, then by pressing her body against his. She was shorter than him by several inches, so he bent to deepen the kiss and wrapped his arms around her to bring her closer. He could feel her breasts against his chest and allowed his hands to roam down her back. By the time he felt her hands thread through his hair, he was hard and ready for her. Tingles she created in his scalp shot down to his cock. The primary goal of the evening was forgotten. Looking for a wife could wait. He wanted to act on his attraction to this woman. Not even his mistress back in Galenet got him this excited this quickly. Already he was aching to release her breasts from their tenuous captivity and fondle her until she cried out for more. He was still thinking about how he could get her someplace private when she broke the kiss and stepped back from him. “Thank you,” she said. “I needed that.” He tried to kiss her again but she put a hand on his chest to stop him. It was then he noticed her breathing had returned to normal, and she was no longer flustered. His heartbeat raced while hers seemed to have calmed. He didn’t try to keep the annoyance from his voice when he asked, “You needed to be kissed?” “No. I needed a diversion to keep a lecherous old man away from me. Since you were available, your kiss was the distraction I chose. Many thanks for your kind, if

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unplanned, assistance, sir. It is greatly appreciated and was a very nice kiss.” Nice? he thought angrily. It was better than that, much better. He was not accustomed to being called a diversion, and he didn’t much like it, especially as he was now hungry for more from this woman than a simple kiss. She took a step back and he grabbed her arm. How could she rock him to his core and not be affected in any way? It was maddening. And she had called him “sir.” Did that mean she didn’t know who he was? If so, she must be the only woman in the kingdom who didn’t, which made her even more intriguing and desirable. Before he could question her, they were interrupted by the sound of a clearing throat. “Your Majesty,” a deep voice called. Teodor turned to see Vencor, his father’s prime minister, standing at the doors with a familiar expression of annoyed concern on his face. The man consistently had lousy timing and tonight was no exception. “I am sorry if I am interrupting you, but you are needed by His Highness as soon as possible.” The man wasn’t sorry at all, and they both knew it. “I will be there momentarily,” Teodor answered. So much for the chance to be with someone who didn’t know his title and covet a position as his wife. “As soon as I say goodnight to…” He turned to address the woman, but she was gone. “To whom, sir?” “The lady I was just ki…” He stopped. “Did you see her?” “No, sir, but your back was to me when I stepped out. Perhaps you blocked her from my view.” “Did you notice her leave?” His thoughts were muddled. Teodor couldn’t even remember letting go of her arm. “I’m afraid not, sir, but I’m certain you will be able to find her later.” Damn right I will, he thought, as he checked the empty terrace once more before following Vencor into the packed ballroom. ****

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Mariella watched as the man started to walk back into the castle, then stop and look over his shoulder. She knew he was looking for her. She was grateful for the interruption, which give her time to run into the shadows at the edge of the terrace. She would have smiled except she could still hear the man’s address, “Majesty.” Of all the people to kiss, she had chosen the wife-hunting prince of the realm. True, she had a similar goal in mind, but her motivation for husband-hunting was self-preservation, not for reproduction and court appearances. When she arrived at the ball and heard the constant chatter about Prince Teodor, she counted herself lucky that she had no interest in the prince. In fact, she didn’t want to be involved with nobility at too high a level at all. There would be countless responsibilities, pressures, and protocols to follow. After years of being a slave in own her family, she wanted nothing more than to be free from them and in a home of her own. To do this, she needed to find a husband, but not one who would create another prison for her. These dances were the opportunites she had prayed for, and she was not going to waste the chance. Her plan, which she had been concocting since her sisters first received the invitation to these events, was to meet an older man – perhaps a widower – who wouldn’t care that she came with no dowry, only that she was beautiful and willing. She didn’t even mind if he had children. Having been a stepchild herself, she knew she could do a better job caring for them than what she had been shown. The one thing she didn’t want, besides the prince, was love or passion, after witnessing the pain her father endured when her mother died or her own lasting grief at the loss of her parents. She was committed to not putting herself through the potential for that kind of agony. Security and freedom, yes. Love and restrictions, no. Unfortunately, in the last hour, while trying to avoid being noticed by her stepfamily, she had caught the attention of the Earl of Somerville, a lascivious coot who clearly wanted a roll in the hay and nothing more. He’d offer nothing permanent. She had enough of that in her life already. She was searching for something lifelong.

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Because of years doing the bidding of her stepmother and sisters, Mariella was good at reading and anticipating people. She knew when to offer assistance and when to keep away, when to question and when to be silent, when to initiate and when to respond. She could analyze most social situations correctly within moments of entering a room or hearing a conversation. It was a skill that kept her from going to bed hungry on many occasions, and she was putting this ability to good use tonight. A second helpful ability was understanding that most people were rarely more than they appeared after a first meeting, and they would work hardest to cover up what they feared most. The braggarts were cowardly, the vain were unattractive, the opinionated were ignorant. She had hoped these talents would allow her to hone in on an appropriate marriage candidate. Of course, this was before she ran, literally, into the prince. Too bad a man who thought nothing of shopping for a bride in such an impersonal manner was such a good kisser. It would make him harder to forget. Mariella cringed, then smiled when she remembered what she said to him. Had she actually told him his kiss was “nice”? The astonished look on his face had been almost amusing. Of course, at that point, she hadn’t known who he was. When she ran outside to escape the Earl’s attention, her only thought had been to hide long enough for Somerville to tire of searching for her. When she found herself in the arms of the tall, broad-shouldered man staring at her mouth, she had a far more enjoyable idea. As far as getting rid of the Earl was concerned, it worked. She briefly opened her eyes during the kiss and saw the old man notice her, shrug and leave. However, enjoying the touch of a stranger, then discovering she had claimed a kiss from her future sovereign, was not part of any plan. Neither was the shiver of pleasure the embrace caused. She couldn’t forget the expression in his eyes before they kissed. Concern for her, combined with a hint of misery that was all too familiar to Mariella. She recognized quickly the look of despair that came from believing oneself trapped. She couldn’t help wonder what made him

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feel that way. After their embrace, his despair had been transformed into desire. It would be a long time before she forgot the hunger and need she saw there. **** Later that night, she lay in bed unable to sleep and thought about the prince. She had loved sensing the moment he gave himself over to their embrace. His body had stiffened, then relaxed, and then hardened again – lower. She shivered as she remembered it. The way he had pressed against her at the end told her he was ready for more than a kiss, but her abrupt dismissal had quickly cooled his ardor. He wasn’t used to being rejected, that was certain. He was also not used to having things demanded from him. He gave orders. He didn’t take them, but as she reflected more on their encounter, another ripple went through her. Perhaps he liked not having a choice in the matter. She certainly enjoyed giving an order for a change and having someone do as she said. If having power excited her, could surrendering excite him? The prince’s reaction hinted at an intriguing and exciting contradiction. Mariella had some experience with the pleasure of power exchange in the bedroom, but always where she was the submissive to the partner her stepmother insist she “attend.” She responded as the men wanted, which was the easiest way for her to find any enjoyment in the coupling. She discovered that the weaker the man seemed, the more control he chose to exert during sex. Perhaps the reverse would be true of a man who had complete power over his own life? Would he enjoy her being in control? The idea made her wet. There were grand balls planned the next two evenings. She needed to return tomorrow night to continue her husband search, but, if their paths crossed again, perhaps she would spend time flirting with the sexy Prince Teodor. It would be worth it to find out if there were more secrets inside the man whose mouth made her hunger. But, she reminded herself, it could be, would be, nothing more than that. She had no long-term interest in the man. Still, his was the face she was thinking of as she

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fell asleep. Even after years of schooling her features to have no expression, hiding her mood from her family the next day was one of the hardest things she had ever done. Her stepsisters chattered incessantly about the party and the people they met, their mother thrilled to hear every connection the girls made. Mariella almost spilled hot water on herself when she heard the oldest, Stania, describe the Earl of Somerville in glowing and hopeful terms. Let her learn the hard way for once, she had thought. It would serve her right. As soon as the others left for the ball, Mariella raced to her room and her mother’s secret trunks. When her mother had died, Mariella’s father had put away his wife’s clothes. Soon after his new wife arrived, Mariella instinctively knew these people could not be trusted, and they would likely take rather than share. She stored the trunks under the eves behind a wall in her attic bedroom. When the balls were announced, she knew she had clothes and jewels appropriate for the occasion. A week before the events, she had taken the dresses out to inspect them for worn sections that needed mending. It was then she discovered an unexpected pair of glass shoes, hidden under the gowns and distinct from any she had ever seen. The dramatically high heel made her smile and wonder about the mother she could barely remember. She slipped them on, hoping that they would fit and when they did, she felt a delight that made her feel strong, beautiful and sexy, as if the shoes had a special power of their own. From that moment, she longed for an occasion to wear them. She had not worn them the first night because she was concerned about breaking them, but after meeting the prince and thinking about what she hoped to learn, Mariella decided to take the chance. Besides, they gave her additional height, and the prince was at least six inches taller than she was. She wouldn’t be able to meet his eyes directly, but she would be closer. She wanted to see his expression if she were alone with him again. When she arrived at the ball, it was already busy and noisy. She took a flute of

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champagne from a passing servant and moved slowly around the room, again making certain to keep an eye on where her stepsisters and their mother were so that she could avoid them. Their garish dresses made them easy to locate, even in the crowd. She would never have guessed their lack of taste would one day be an advantage for her. As Mariella walked, she looked with curiosity at the attendees. Knowing she was wearing the sexiest shoes she had ever seen made her wonder if they had secrets beneath their clothes as well. What were the courtiers whispering about in the corner? What were they hiding under all those layers of finery? Perhaps the tightly corseted woman standing by the buffet ached to have her husband lick her to orgasm, but was too shy to let him know. Maybe tonight the man looking hungrily at his wife would finally tell her of his desire to be tied to the bed while she rode him. The last thought caused a shiver of pleasure to run through her. Did the prince have a secret side to his sexual needs? If everyone always catered to him and did as he asked, had he ever been able to experience true passion in the bedroom? She wondered if his “charmed” life was almost as mechanical and planned out as hers. As she scanned the ballroom, she considered this connection they might share. Damn, I’m looking for him, she thought angrily. She sipped from her drink as she realized she was continuing to let her experience with the prince distract her from her original goal. She only had two nights to meet a man and receive his interest, if not a proposal. She could not afford to be sidetracked. Besides, Prince Teodor was likely busy with one of the hundreds of other women vying for his affection. She doubted if he even remembered their kiss. When she realized the notion made her angry, she shook her head, trying to clear it again of thoughts of him. She needed to focus on men who were appropriate, which didn’t describe the prince at all. Putting on a more welcoming and seductive expression, she began to move purposefully through the crowd. Almost two hours later, Mariella was thrilled to have engaged the attention of a charming older Viscount and was feeling very positive about the possibilities with him.

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She was charming and coy and he was clearly enamored, talking of himself at length and beginning to hint at how she might fit into his household and give him the heir he wanted. As she was beginning to relax and enjoy their conversation, she saw him stiffen, step back, and bow. Mariella’s heart raced, knowing who she would see when she turned. Teodor was even more handsome in the fully lit room than he had been on the terrace. She curtsied low and tried not to curse under her breath. She had done such a good job of getting him out of her mind, but here he was, invading both her thoughts and her vision. She could hardly remember the Viscount’s name now that Teodor stood before her. He was one of those men who wore power as if it were something they were born with, not born to. On market days she had seen gentry who did not come across as powerful and gamekeepers who did. Teodor’s confidence and command were clearly as much a part of him as his gorgeous eyes, which tonight she could see were midnight blue. “If you will excuse us, Sir March,” he said to the Viscount, who nodded in assent. Teodor turned to Mariella. “I would have the next dance with you.” “As you wish, Your Highness.” She held out her hand to him, and, taking it, he guided her to the floor. “And I would have your name as well.”

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Chapter Two

It had taken him too long to find her, and he was anxious to have her in his arms again. Since he couldn’t be alone with her yet, the dance would have to do. As she walked beside him, he swore he could smell the scent of her perfume – feminine and sexy. Her upper body brushed lightly against his, teasing his senses further. It was a wonder he didn’t have an erection by the time they reached the center of the room. He couldn’t understand why he hadn’t found her earlier in the evening. The simple lines and color of the dark green dress made her stand out from all the fuss and frills of the other women. She wore only a small pair of earrings for jewelry and, he thought, she didn’t need additional enhancement. When the music began, he realized she had avoided giving him her name. He smiled at her cunning as they fell into step with one another. He was surprised by how comfortable it was to move with her. Although he led, it was as if she anticipated what he wanted rather then responding to his direction. He had only to think of the next step, and she was moving. The dance required them to separate, then come back together and each time they did, he experienced a thrill. She felt wonderful in his arms, as though she had been waiting for him. The piece ended too quickly, and he was pleased to hear her suggest, “I would enjoy it if we could continue.” He knew that agreeing would send tongues wagging and rumors flying, since he hadn’t paid this kind of attention to anyone else, but in the moment he didn’t care. It wasn’t as though the talk of others had ever bothered him before. Still, it wouldn’t do to give in to her too quickly. “Not unless you tell me your name.” She smiled. “And here I thought you had forgotten. I am Mariella Janis.” “I am inclined to forget little about you and glad we have been introduced, Lady

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Mariella.” “As am I, Your Majesty, but, please, it’sMariella. I am no lady.” Before he could ask her what she meant, she opened her arms and he took them, leading her into the swirl of people. This dance kept them touching at all times and allowed him to look at her more closely. Her lips were as he remembered, ripe and red, ready for his kiss. He longed to see them swollen from his attention. Her brown hair was swept up and away from her face, and he wondered how long it would fall when he undid it, how it would feel in his hands. Everything about her was beautiful, but it was her eyes that truly held him. There was understanding, longing and passion in her deep brown eyes. Teodor wasn’t sure why he saw that when he looked at her. She seemed so different from the throngs of single women he had had to speak with these past few days who were so calculating and shallow. For him, Mariella could say nothing and be interesting. It was refreshing. And intriguing. He didn’t know why he responded to her this way, but he was determined to find out. When the music ended, he wanted to continue, but that would be tantamount to a proposal. As during their dance, she once again anticipated him. Coming up from her curtsy, she said, “I am sorry we cannot dance again.” “As am I, but you could meet me on the terrace again in a few minutes,” he suggested “I will do that,” she said. “I have your world you will be there?” “You do, Your Majesty.” “Then I will join you shortly.” As with everything these last few days, it took him longer than he wanted to get to her, and he wondered if she would keep her promise. It bothered him to know he couldn’t find her if she didn’t. As soon as he was outside he heard her call, “I am here, Your Majesty.”

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He walked toward her voice only to see her walk quickly down a small flight of stairs that led in to the garden. “You wish to be chased?” he asked when he caught up with her. “I wish to be undisturbed,” she said. “We were interrupted last night.” “And then you disappeared.” “I didn’t know how long you would be then, and being found alone with you would have been difficult to explain. I thought that tonight, we should have some privacy.” “I agree. Come with me.” He took her hand and led her to one of this favorite places on the grounds, a tree-sheltered grotto. They walked past a fountain in the center to a pavilion with a bench, where he had her sit and took a seat facing her. Before he could kiss her, as he was aching to do, she asked, “Why are you suddenly looking for a wife? And why these elaborate events to find one?” Her questions caught him off guard. He was expecting coy flirtations meant only to delay the inevitable. Instead, by the light of the moon, he could see that she was quite serious and expected an answer. He was quickly learning, and becoming thankful that she was not like the other women he had met. “It was neither my idea nor my choice,” he replied honestly. **** His tone told her more than his words. “I had that feeling,” she said. “It explains why I found you alone and removed from the crowd last night. Tell me more.” If he noticed her request was phrased as a command, he didn’t say. “I have been given the opportunity to rule my own kingdom before the death of my father.” “That’s wonderful.” “It has been, yes. Thirteen months ago, the king of Galenet, the land that lies to the south, died without legitimate heirs. My father is the closest relative to the crown. Rather than try to rule two kingdoms simultaneously, which historically has weakened

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both lands, two months later he offered me the monarchy of Galenet. I must prove I am worthy of the position within the year of my appointment and by the end of that time, I must also be married. He believes a wife is required for a successful leader.” “You disagree?” “I agree a wife is important to quality of life, not to mention future heirs, but I do not see how she would help with my new responsibilities. Things in Galenet have been going well during this transition. On the other hand, the process of finding a wife has been more exhausting than exhilarating. It has pulled me away from what I wish to be doing and placed me in the center of social attention, which I detest.” “It is a challenging way to meet someone,” she agreed. “You have a gift for understatement. The choosing could have waited and been done under different circumstances. As is, the only women I am meeting here are those who desire to be queen. I could be a troll without a brain in my head, but as long as I have a title, I am desirable.” “I assume from the urgent air that surrounds these events that your year is almost up.” He nodded. “In just over four weeks, I must attend my coronation with a wife at my side or I forfeit the crown. I thought if I waited long enough my father would change his mind, but as you can see, it hasn’t happened. The parties were organized to encourage me to meet women and choose from among them, but where I am needed is back in my kingdom, not wasting time on chasing matrimony. I get reports and letters almost daily telling me of issues that need my attention, decisions that need my guidance. I want to be back there.” “It is frustrating to be in a situation you didn’t plan for and can’t control.” “If you are referring to the wife hunting, then yes. I didn’t plan to be king so young, but my work in Galenet has been fascinating and exciting. The past months have been a time for me to review what the previous king did and then decide whether I think his decrees should stand. If not, I work with my father’s prime minister, Vencor,

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who has been counseling me, as well as the Dukes and other advisors, to make changes and monitor the situation to see if I get the results I hoped for when these changes are carried out. So far, things have been very successful.” He took a breath. “I am rambling. I apologize.” “No need. It sounds to me like you miss your kingdom.” “I do, and you’re right in your choice of words. I think of it as mine already. I feel it.” She enjoyed watching him become more animated as he spoke of his world. She envied him his passion – and sympathized with his frustration. It was clear that leading Galenet inspired him. She couldn’t remember anything that made her feel that way. “I can see your challenge. Your days are normally filled with others doing what you request and require. Unfortunately, here at these parties, you must do what others demand.” Turning to gaze at the ornate fountain, she could not keep the wistful tone from her voice. She longed for even a fraction of the control he had in his life. “How are your days filled?” he asked. She turned back to him, surprised by, and mildly uncomfortable with, the question. No one had ever asked her about her life, not even the family “guests” who visited. She remained as invisible as possible to them, which was how she liked it. “Mine are filled doing what I am told.” “I suppose there is a certain ease and simplicity in that.” “You could look at it that way, but after years of it, with no end in sight, simplicity becomes drudgery.” “What do you mean?” She answered without thinking to censor herself. “Each day is the same for me, and there is no chance or hope for change. Even when something unexpected does happen, it is rarely pleasant.” Mariella shuddered briefly, unable to keep from thinking of the visitors to whom she was required to be ‘hospitable’. “When you are aware that you have completely lost your say in the matter of your life, it becomes more painful

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than tranquil, just as you have learned with these marriage markets.” His honest curiosity had unlocked her thoughts and her speech. She had not intended to reveal so much about her situation, but it seemed natural to do so after he had shared the truth of his life with her. “I can see your point. For me, the problem ends when the balls do. For you…” he trailed off. “It is unending,” she finished. They sat in silence. The intensity of his stare made her uneasy. She needed to find a way to turn the conversation back to him. “Perhaps I can help us both break out of frustrations, at least for tonight. Is there something you want from me?” It was his turn to look surprised. “Yes,” he said after only thinking briefly. “I want another kiss.” “I would like that, if…” “If?” he interrupted, as he leaned toward her. “There are no ‘ifs’ in kissing.” She backed away. “There is in this one.” “Very well. If what?” “If you allow me to kiss you…without you touching me.” He was too stunned to answer. Her stipulation was unexpected and strangely exciting. He didn’t immediately understand what her request entailed, but he was too intrigued not to pursue this. “How can we kiss without touching?” “I’ll touch you, but your hands will not touch me.” He gave her a puzzled look. “You must be aware that you are quite a compelling man, and I don’t think, given your need to marry appropriately, it would be wise for me to get carried away, as my social position means I am not a suitable candidate. Therefore, I am asking that you thread your hands behind your back before we kiss and keep them there. Should you reach for me at any time, the kiss will end.” This was insane. And arousing. He had never had a woman offer herself to him

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with limits. The novelty combined with her enthusiasm was exciting. A part of him still wondered at the game she was playing, but he was willing to join in for now. “Very well, I agree, with the condition that I choose the parameters of a future kiss.” “I think that can be arranged, your Majesty.” “Teodor. If we are to kiss, we should be on a first-name basis.” She smiled. “Granted. Now, if you would put your hands behind you, Teodor, I am hungry for my kiss.” He smiled and did as she asked. Something about the action itself sent a shiver of arousal through him. The pleasures of the moment were out of his control and not his concern. There was no need to worry about whether or not he was pleasuring or impressing her. He needed only to sit and enjoy. She moved forward on the bench until her skirts were against him. A mischievous and sexy expression passed over her features, and she leaned in, giving him a series of tender and brief kisses on the lips. As she reached to caress his cheek with one hand and kiss him more firmly, he responded warmly. Instinctively, his hands began to move, and her hand dropped away. He stopped in time and rethreaded his fingers tighter. This was going to be more challenging than he anticipated. Running her tongue along his lips, he opened his mouth in response, and she slid her tongue inside. She tasted of champagne and her own unique heat. She shifted closer to him and deepened the kiss. The smell of her skin added to his awareness of her. Although only their mouths touched, she surrounded him. Her hands came up again to reach the back of his head and, as she did the previous night, she ran her hands deliciously through his hair. Not having to focus on anything but responding, he found himself more excited by her kisses than he had been even by other women’s nudity. He was aware of every move she made, and every move he couldn’t. After a while, the thought of reaching for her completely disappeared into surrendering to the sensations she was causing.

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“My God, can you kiss,” he said during a pause when she stopped to breathe. “How does it feel to allow someone else to give you what you want, to be in charge of your pleasure?” she asked. “Quite wonderful.” “See? It’s not always a bad thing to give up control.” “In the right situation, apparently not,” he said and bowed his head forward to continue the kiss. She met his lips hungrily, plundering his mouth with hers. He had never known how intimate a kiss could be. He gasped against her when her hands moved down his jaw to the collar of his shirt. She ran her fingers along the edge of the material, teasing him. When her hands touched the front of his throat, he moaned as she played with the top button that hindered her search for more skin. It was maddening. Several times he started to move toward her and almost brought his hands forward to grab her, but she’d pull back enough to remind him of her conditions and he restrained himself. “You are driving me insane,” he said softly. He was amazed he could speak at all. “Good. That is my intention,” she said as her hands traveled down his chest, the heat of them searing though the thin fabric. He finally decided he could stand no more. He would risk the consequences. He had to touch her. However, the moment was broken when he heard a voice urgently calling his name. “Who is that?” Mariella asked against his lips. “That, unfortunately, is Ramat, the Captain of the Guard from Galenet. He is not expected at these events. If he is looking for me, he’s traveled a long way to do so and something is wrong. Wait here. I’ll be back as soon as I can.” He gave her a deep kiss and left. Teodor walked quickly from the grotto and met the captain on the terrace. The man bowed low and wasted no time. “Your Majesty, I am sorry to interrupt you, but I

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received word early this morning that there is trouble along our western border with the Duke of Pelham. “ “What is the problem?” “It seems he is less than pleased with your latest decision regarding his land holdings and there is talk among the other nobles that should you not change your ruling, he will find others to ally himself with to challenge your policies and right to rule.” Teodor shook his head. The proprietary nature of some of the nobles was an ongoing source of frustration. They couldn’t see the benefits of making certain sacrifices now for long-term gains. If Pelham had concerns, he had only to join the other dukes at council sessions. To date, the man had yet to make an appearance, although he was perfectly willing to make threats. “Very well. I will review the situation and give you a report to take back in the morning. Thank you for bringing this matter to me personally. Go and have a room readied for your stay this evening. There is someone I must say goodnight to before I attend to this matter.” Ramat bowed quickly. “As you wish, Your Majesty.” Thoughts of his kingdom filled his head as Teodor made his way back to Mariella. He noticed a stiffness in his fingers, a result of clutching them tightly, and smiled. Crisis or no, he wanted one more of her kisses before ending the evening. Looking forward to her touch, he stepped into the grotto – only to find that she was gone. **** Ramat watched a disheveled Teodor head back into the garden after his trollop. Distractible fool, he thought. He was so concerned about finding a wife, he couldn’t see his kingdom was being systematically usurped. Hell, the man couldn’t stay focused on the bride search without pausing to tumble some wench in the garden during one of the balls. The duke causing problems was one Ramat had personally selected to stir up

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trouble. He remembered the quick-tempered man from past events in Galenet. An arrogant and insecure weasel, his invitation to the council meetings had been “lost” so his input was never heard. Once he received word of his exclusion, he began, as Ramat knew he would, to start rumblings of insurrection and impropriety. A few more weeks of worming his way into the pretender king’s good graces while planting suspicions in the minds of a select and growing number of the dukes and he would be able to have Teodor assassinated without any problems. Then, bastard son or no, he would take over and rule the kingdom that was rightfully his.

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Chapter Three



Mariella left the castle the minute after Teodor left her. She untied her horse

from the tree where she had hidden her and raced home, needing to arrive before her step-family and ahead of the thunderstorm she could hear coming. The only thing that frightened her as much as being trapped forever in her current life was being caught in a thunderstorm. She’d hated them as a child, but first her mother and later her father was there to hold her. Then, after he was killed when his horse spooked during a storm, they petrified her. Now, she risked the same fate if she could not get back to the manor in time. As her mare cantered, she wondered what the prince would think if he saw she rode a horse – and what he thought when he discovered she had disappeared again. Absently, she ran her fingers across her tender lips. A tingle shot through her at the remembered sensations of the prince’s mouth, hungry against hers. He was a wonderful kisser, and she had been smart to keep him from touching her. Had she experienced any more pleasure, she would have forgotten all reason and offered herself completely to the charismatic man. Her cheeks flushed when she thought about her boldness in telling him he couldn’t touch her. She wasn’t even sure where the idea had come from, but once she had it, she acted on it. Being able to kiss him the way she wanted, at the pace she desired, had been a heady experience. With no one pawing at her or making opposing demands, she was able to fully enjoy and give herself over to the embrace. She could taste his hunger and feel hers build. Having control over the kiss allowed her to lose herself in the sensations he created within her. She felt every muscle he tensed, every intake of breath, and reveled in knowing that she was the cause of his pleasure. She urged her horse faster, trying to clear her head. She couldn’t let it matter

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if she had enjoyed her time with Teodor in the garden because it couldn’t result in a situation where she would be in control of her life. Therefore, he had to be forgotten. Besides, he would never be permitted to marry someone with her background. She had been drawn into his excitement as he spoke with passion about ruling Galenet, but the moment he turned his attention to her life, she shied away. She wasn’t embarrassed about her life, but she didn’t want to talk much about it to anyone either. When she found the right man and married, that part of her life would be over, brushed away like ashes. As would her time with the prince, she hoped. She couldn’t allow herself to dwell on how he made her feel. The way he stirred her heart made him almost as dangerous to her future as her step-family. Of course, it was silly to think he would choose her as his wife, but she couldn’t deny that as hard as she tried, she was drawn to him and the idea of getting to know him better, and more intimately. Stop being a fool, she scolded herself. For years she prided herself on her ability to be practical and get through any situation. She needed that skill now to be certain she kept her focus on creating the life she wanted. Once the balls were over, her opportunity to be free of her family would be gone. Tomorrow night she would go back, connect with the Viscount she had met, and do her best to avoid the prince. She arrived home as the first rain drops began to fall and was in her attic room, the dress and slippers hidden once more, as the rain began in earnest. A knock at the door startled her, but she relaxed when a small head peaked in through the open door. “Are you all right, Mariella?” asked Finn, the eight year-old stable boy and the only other person who was part of the manor. Her stepmother had brought him to their home two years ago from a work house in the city. He had quickly proven himself worthy of his room and board, which was all he was given. He helped wherever he was needed and was Mariella’s favorite person. “I’m fine, Finn.” “I was worried you wouldn’t get home in time when I heard the thunder.” He

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knew her fears, as well as her true reasons for going to the ball. She hoped she would be able to take him with her when she someday left. “I made it, my sweet.” She found it both lovely and sad that he worried about her so much. At his age, his days should be carefree and fun, as hers had been. “Did you have fun tonight?” Did she? It wasn’t a simple question to answer, although the tingling between her legs was certainly one indication. “I suppose so,” she said. “I’m glad.” A flash of lightening lit the small room, quickly followed by a roar of thunder that shook Mariella. “I’m going to stay with you tonight,” Finn said bravely. Whether it was to calm his own fear or hers, she didn’t know or care. She allowed the boy to climb into bed with her. Keeping her eyes tightly closed to block out the flashes of lightening, she concentrated on the comforting sounds of the rain. She tried to think of happier thoughts, as her father had once told her to do, but the images in her mind were of dancing with Teodor, which were more disturbing than soothing. When she finally slept, she dreamt about him. Hot, fevered scenes filled with passion and need. She saw him tied to a giant bed while she created whatever pleasures she wanted for them of both. He begged to touch her, taste her, and she denied them both as long as she could. Then she slid his cock into her body and she rode them both to a climax. She had orgasmed in her sleep and woken in a tangle of blankets and damp sheets, her pussy still quivering. Grateful that Finn had woken earlier and left already, she lay there trying to breathe normally while images of her and Teodor clinging passionately to one another continued to play in her head. With her eyes closed, she could almost recall the heady masculine scent of his skin. Finally she rose, angry with herself for getting carried away, even if only while she slept. It made her more determined than before to stay away from him at the ball. Throughout the day, she chastised herself and built arguments for not seeing him. Not

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only would a life with him come with restrictions, but he had an uncanny ability to sneak past her defenses, and that she could not live with. She was so caught up in her own concerns, she nearly missed an important conversation between her stepmother and sisters. “But what if I don’t want to leave early?” Stania complained. “Things are always more fun later in the evening, mother,” Ulrica agreed. “Perhaps that is true for the two of you, but I am neither young nor looking for a husband at these balls,” said Lenore. “Unless one or both of you is close to making a lasting connection, we will be leaving at one.” “But mother,” they protested in unison. “This is our last night,” Stania added. “Not one more word or I will set the time earlier.” The girls knew Lenore could not be moved when she made up her mind, and the room grew silent again. Knowing her time was also going to be more limited that evening, Mariella vowed she would concentrate on her goal of finding a safe husband and avoid the prince. Her future depended on it. The promise lasted less than an hour. She had worn a light purple dress for the final event, the color of dusk, hoping to better blend in with the other women, who favored pastels. She found the Viscount, and they had enjoyed two dances before he excused himself to get them something to drink. The possibility of a future with him looked promising, especially after she assured him there was nothing between her and the prince. If he would propose tonight, she could be away from her step-family within the week. In addition to liking the Viscount, she had no fear that she would ever come to love him. He was sweet and unsophisticated, preferring to talk about himself and his business. Any attention he paid to her was regarding her beauty and to be certain she agreed with him. He was easy to be with and if she never loved him, she would be spared the pain of someday losing him, as her father had lost her mother or she both her parents.

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With the prince, she wasn’t convinced of that. He found ways to catch her off guard. His focus was intense, his questions revealing. Not only was he exciting and charming, but there was something about him – the honesty and commitment he showed, the interest in her life, that made her worry for her emotions. She was not willing to give her heart to any man, no matter his title. She was still absorbed in her thoughts when a glass of champagne appeared before her. She put on her best smile and turned to the Viscount. And found Teodor standing before her instead. Her heart raced in anticipation and panic. She couldn’t deny that part of her was pleased to see him again, although this was likely the end of any possibilities of a relationship with the Viscount. Once again, she thought with dismay, she was given no control of her future. “I found you,” he said almost proudly. “Indeed you have, Your Majesty,” she said and managed to take a sip of champagne in spite of the lump in her throat. “I didn’t appreciate your disappearing last night without so much as a goodnight kiss.” “I am sorry,” she lied, “but I had no way of knowing how long you would be, and I needed to return home early.” “You can make it up to me now with a dance.” “Very well.” There was nothing else she could say. She took his hand and followed him out to the floor as she saw the Viscount return to where she had been standing. The expression on his face told her she was correct about their future of their relationship. As she and the prince moved together, Mariella found her thoughts swaying faster than the music. One moment she was furious with herself for being in this situation. The next, her skin was flushing from being close to him. The contradiction was unnerving.

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Her ability to hide her emotions, sharpened by years of serving her step-family, must have failed her because not long into the dance he asked, “Is something wrong, Mariella?” How am I supposed to answer? Her mind raced through and discarded a halfdozen possible responses before she decided to keep it simple. “I am sorry, Your Majesty. The activity of the last few days has been…challenging.” “A sentiment I fully understand.” She gave him her first honest smile. “Yes, I suppose you do.” As they continued to dance, she found for the first time she had trouble meeting his eyes. She wasn’t certain if it was because she didn’t want to read his expression, or didn’t want him to read hers. Both options felt risky. When she was with him, she was continually concerned about having her feelings exposed. When the music ended, she thought he would ask for a second dance, but instead he said, “Meet me at the bottom of the stairs in the garden in ten minutes. I would like to spend more time with you, uninterrupted and without being at the subject of a roomful of stares.” She was suddenly aware of the non-smiling faces of many guests in the room. Knowing there was no sense in looking for the Viscount again, and wanting to be away from the attention of others, she agreed and they parted. She toyed with the idea of running home and devising a new plan for her freedom, but then she thought this would likely be her last time to be with a man who excited her as the prince did. Since she had nothing more to lose, she might as well take pleasure in their time together. For once, she would experience satisfaction on her terms. He joined her in ten minutes, as he’d promised. Tonight instead of going directly to the grotto, he took her hand and they strolled around the grounds. Mariella wondered if he was doing this intentionally so she could not disappear again. Between the distraction of his touch and their distance from the castle, there was no way she could find her way safely out of the maze of the gardens. Still, for the moment, she didn’t want to leave.

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She enjoyed talking to him and, surprisingly, listening to him. He took her questions seriously and responded with thoughtful and complete answers, which led to other topics and shared laughter. She had no idea how long they had been walking when she realized the area looked familiar. He had led her back to their grotto after all. They sat down on the bench and without any preliminary action, he took her face in his hands and kissed her deeply. “You captivate me, Mariella,” he said when the kiss ended. It was, she thought, an interesting choice of words, and it gave her an idea. “You must be pleased that tonight is your last night of social torture. Soon you can go back to your kingdom and continue to implement your vision. Days filled with strategies, planning, and unending responsibilities.” “When you put it like that, it doesn’t sound like something to look forward to.”

She looked at him with a knowing smile and gently caressed his face. “Wouldn’t

you love someone to occasionally take you away from all those concerns?”

“What do you mean?” he asked.



“Your time, from what you have told me, is filled with so many obligations

and pressures. You work long hours, creating a kingdom of which to be proud.” As she spoke, she pulled at a ribbon holding back her hair. She had been thinking about her erotic dream from the night before ever since they had arrived at the grotto. Seeing him bound and helpless for her pleasure had excited her. Perhaps there was an opportunity here. If she was going to lose control of her life for the foreseeable future, she would at least make the most of being in control in this instance. She played with the long strip of fabric before wrapping it around his wrists, and then pulled it tightly, bringing his hands together. Pressing up against him, she looked down to see the swell of his cock straining against his pants. Smiling, she looked at him and asked, “After a day of making rules and policies, how would it feel to come back to your rooms, to your wife, and turn yourself over to her?”

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**** He was lost. The rush of feeling to his heart and blood to his cock took his breath away. When her hair tumbled down and the ribbon slid around his skin, he could see nothing, feel nothing, but her. He knew she was not playing with him. Instead, she was offering something he had never considered. Until this moment, Teodor hadn’t imagined he might harbor any desire to forget all of his duties or expected this newly discovered longing could be…sexually exciting. The knowledge brought him a new insight into himself. And her. He grabbed her hands in his bound ones and pulled her to him for a kiss. “Damn, you excite me. Your words, your actions, your honesty. How can I feel this way after having met you only two nights ago?” He kissed her hard and let the truth of his words sink in. He was bedazzled by her. Her beauty, grace, and intelligence captivated him. Clearly she had heard something in his words he hadn’t known he was saying. She wasn’t trying to suggest he not rule, or not want to rule – simply that there were times when he needed to be able to turn part of his life off and simply be with someone else. Most of his life was defined by what he did. She saw him for who he was. This was the woman he wanted for his wife. He would have, could have, no other. He kissed her again this time putting his joined hands over her head and forcing her close to him. They breathed together as her chest pressed firmly against his. He played with her hair, letting it caress his hands. As he moved his wrists, the ribbon loosened, but he did not loose from its hold. There was nothing he wanted more than to be close to her, and the realization rocked him to the core. “I suppose you’ve answered my question,” Mariella said against his lips. “It answers it for both of us, my sweet,” he said, moving his mouth to her jaw and kissing her softly there. “I had not pictured anything like this prior to your suggestion.” “It is nice to think I can surprise you. I have a feeling you aren’t surprised

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often.” “No, I’m not. It is more pleasant than I would have expected.” His kisses traveled to her neck and he smiled when he felt her shiver under his touch. “And now, I would like the chance to delight you.” He leaned forward, forcing Mariella to move back. Before she was completely lying on the bench, he pulled his arms back over her head and worked his hands free of the slack ribbon. He caressed her skin from her cheek to her chest, marveling at the softness. Tracing a finger just under the lace trim of the dress’s décolletage, he smiled when her breath hitched in pleasure. He pulled at the tie holding the bodice together and slowly loosened it, giving him access to her breasts. He freed them both from the confines of the corseted top and brought his mouth down to the nipple of one while teasing the other with the tip of his fingers. Her soft moan was all the encouragement Teodor needed to continue his attention to this part of her body. His own body hard and demanding, he kept his focus on her, wanting her to know by his actions how incredible he found her, how much he wanted to be close to her. He ached to touch more of her, but she was wearing too much material for him to reach between her legs while kissing her breasts. Deciding to increase her pleasure, he moved down her body, thrilled when she did nothing to stop him. When he got to her legs, he moved one to the opposite side of the bench, so she was straddling the seat. He glanced at her to be certain she was not going to protest. Her eyes were closed, and her skin glowed in the moonlight. She looked like a goddess laid out for him to worship. He reached for the hem of her gown and pulled it up slowly exposing her stockinged legs and the most unusual shoes he had ever seen. He might have asked her about them if he wasn’t distracted by the sight of her garters and the naked skin at the top of her legs. Desire won out over curiosity. Lifting away the rest of the material, he exposed her further. Her undergarments were simple, barely covering what was necessary. He was pleased to notice it would be easy to move aside to taste what waited underneath. He

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chose to delay that sweetness for them both by kissing her inner thighs, licking his tongue against her skin, letting the cool night air add to the shivers he was giving her. He could see from her panties she was already wet, and the heat of her drew him in. He slowly traced the skin at the edge of the material, teasing her and, hopefully, increasing her desire. When he heard a whispered “yes,” he knew her need matched his. In a swift move, he slid his finger beneath her underwear and into her pussy. Her gasp and a surge of wetness were exactly the response he hoped for, and he continued to stroke her gently before adding another finger to lightly touch her clitoris. He wanted complete access to her. “Let me take these off of you, my sweet,” he said. She hesitated briefly and he feared he had spoiled the moment. Then her hips rose, and he quickly slid the panties off her legs and let them drop to the ground. As she lowered herself against the bench again, he took in the beauty of her nudity. It was not as if he had never had a woman in this position before, but tonight was different. Tonight he wanted to give pleasure as he never had in the past. He ached to show her with his mouth and fingers, in a way he couldn’t with words, how incredible he found her. While gently teasing her folds, he licked the skin at the crease where her thigh met her pussy, first one side, then the other. Every inch of her was precious. Finally, unable to wait any longer, he allowed his tongue to stroke at her opening with the lightest of caresses. He couldn’t hold back a growl of his own and used all his learned patience skills to keep from devouring her. He didn’t want to bring her to climax too fast or excite her so quickly she didn’t orgasm at all. Her ready passion didn’t help his control as her cries of pleasure told him how excited she was. Learning what pleased her was as thrilling as the results. When he inserted one finger into her, she sighed, but the second caused her to moan. Laving her pussy lips increased her wetness. Flicking at her clitoris caused waves of delight. She tasted wonderful as her desire flowed over his tongue, encouraging him to continue. Suddenly, her hands gripped his hair and her hips pressed to him. He felt her

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legs lift and open wider, giving him more access. He needed no other signs to know her climax was close. He pushed his fingers deeper, curving them up to touch the sensitive spot inside and concentrated on moving his tongue on her clit. She pushed his face closer to her body and gave a muffled scream as her orgasm hit her. He kept the pace of his actions steady as she shook and quivered with pleasure. It became a delightful challenge to see how long he could keep her at this peak. He would have loved for it to last longer for her, but when her legs relaxed, he accepted the rhythm of her body and slowed his touch, making it soothing, bringing her down gently. When her shudders had subsided, he kissed his way up her body, drying his lips first on her leg, then on her gown. Arriving at her face, he kissed her hungrily, and then gasped as her hands began to play with the closure of his pants. It was the first time he had given a thought to his pleasure since she wrapped the ribbon around his hands. “Given your position,” he said looking down at her, “perhaps I could help you.” “Yes, please,” she said, still sounding a little breathless. His hands met hers at his crotch, sending a spark of pleasure through him. Undoing the laces holding his trousers together suddenly became the biggest challenge of the night. It was complete confusion at first as neither of them seemed able to undo a tie. He would have thought it humorous if he weren’t aching for her touch. Finally, the material loosened and her hand slid down the skin of his stomach and moved directly to his cock. Her skin was cool on his overheated body and he throbbed under her caresses. Thoughts of surrendering to her completely, to whatever she wanted to do to him, flashed through his mind as he gave himself over to the sensations her simple strokes were causing him.

In the distance, the clock began to chime twelve. He barely registered the sound,

but Mariella sat up, pushing him back and off of her. Jumping off the bench, which dumped him to the ground, she hastily fixed her dress and said, “I have to go.” “What are you doing?” he asked, his pants still open.

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“I’m sorry. I can’t explain. I’ve already stayed too long.” She clutched at her dress then raced off before she could finish lacing her stays. Standing, then fumbling to get his own clothes into an acceptable state, he ran after her as soon as he could. A cold fear enveloped him. Was she going to disappear into the night as she had done previously? There were no more events at which he could connect with her. He ran through the ballroom heedless of the stares following him and caught sight of her leaving by the front doors.

Running out of the castle as the clock stuck its last, he found no trace of her.

There was nothing but silence. A silence broken by his roar of anger. He stood there breathing fast, gathering his thoughts and trying to calm his temper. As he turned, the moonlight made something sparkle. He knelt down and picked up what appeared to be her shoe. It was more delicately shaped than he realized and made of glass with a high slender heel which seemed impossible to walk on. It was still warm. It was hers. He held it as tightly as he dared and walked back into the castle, hoping his erection would not show. ****

Ramat had gone to the grotto in the hopes of interrupting and embarrassing the

prince with his little trollop. Instead, to his disappointment, he found the area empty. He was about to leave when something caught his eye. He crossed to the bench and on the ground he found a pair of underwear. He brought it to his nose, breathed in the unmistakable scent of female arousal. Putting the garment in his pocket, he smiled. He had no idea how he was going to use this piece of evidence, but he decided it would be good to have. Just in case.

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Chapter Four



Mariella had watched from the shadows as Teodor walked back to the ball. She

was probably one of the only unmarried women in attendance who hadn’t come looking to meet the prince, yet there she stood, still wet and breathless from their time together. She never had an experience like the one they had shared, and she couldn’t deny that she wanted more. Teodor was passionate and charming. It had been difficult to leave. Mariella knew he was following her and she couldn’t allow herself to be caught. Although the shoe was precious to her, she decided she couldn’t go back for it and risk him finding her. A life with him was not only impossible – it petrified her. She was devastated to have lost something of her mother’s, but her freedom was more important. **** Two days after the last ball, the sound of her sisters squealing brought her running from her duties in the kitchen. Mariella had assumed something terrible had happened and almost expected to see signs of blood from the urgency and volume of their cries, but didn’t need to ask about the problem once she saw them grabbing a letter back and forth. Before the paper could be destroyed, her stepmother Lenore commanded, “Stania, you read it. Ulrica, sit down and be quiet.” The younger sister flounced into a chair, sulking.

“This is so fantastic, mother,” Stania started. “Listen. ‘A proclamation to the

ladies of the kingdom: Be it known to all that at the recent palace events, His Royal Highness Prince Teodor, Crown Prince of Novaria and acting King of Galenet, has met the woman he wishes to wed. However, as he was able to learn only her first name and not where she lives, he will be traveling through the kingdom in search of the maiden who fits the shoe left behind after the last ball. All the women of the house, in every house in Novaria, will be asked to come forward and try on the slipper. Social position and title are of no consequence. She who can both wear and walk in the shoe

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will become his bride. Most sincerely, Altus Vencor, Prime Minister.” Isn’t that just too exciting?” she said breathlessly when she finished.

“It is indeed,” said Lenore as she began to pace. Mariella could tell from her

expression that she was hatching a plan. “I am fairly certain neither of you spent time beyond basic introductions with the prince, nor did either of you leave a shoe behind. However, that doesn’t mean when he arrives here, you can’t fit into the shoe. And when you do, we will all live well and happily.” Mariella shook her head at the woman’s arrogance and stupidity. Having lived with her for over ten years, it didn’t surprise her, but she still didn’t like it.

“What if I don’t want her to live in the castle with me?” Stania whined.



“What makes you think it will be you?” Ulrica chimed in. “It could be me, and I

certainly wouldn’t want you hanging around.” “With your fat feet? Not likely.” “My feet are not fat. Tell her, mother.” Mariella left the room thankful to have not been seen, and headed to the barn as the argument continued. She preferred the quiet company of animals to the constant bickering of those two. The animals were more considerate, and probably smarter. She breathed in the scent of fresh hay, grabbed her stool and a pail, and sat to milk the cow. As the pail filled, she thought about Teodor and knew that if he saw her now, he couldn’t possibly want her. Here she was, a servant, nothing like the confident woman he had met and danced with. Nothing like the passionate women he had surrendered to one night, then brought to orgasm the next. It had been difficult to leave the final time, not to mention nearly impossible to ride her horse with a tingling soreness between her legs, but she’d believed it was the right choice. Why linger, she’d thought? Being with him was not an option, so remaining for the rest of the evening wasn’t either. She had shivered with pleasure and, she had to admit, sorrow when she heard his roar of frustration at finding her gone. He didn’t know that she watched his display

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from the shadows. Running in the slippers had been a greater challenge then finding her way out of the garden. She was about to go back for the shoe when he came charging outside. Please don’t notice it, please, she’d hoped in vain. She appreciated the care with which he cradled it, and although it was clever of him to use it to locate her, she had to do something to avoid being found. Perhaps she could give the matching shoe she still had to one of her sisters, and teach her to walk in it so she would be ready for the prince. Then they would all go off and she would be able to stay here.

She cringed at what Lenore would say if she learned Mariella had been at the

balls, and the thought of one of her sisters being with Teodor made her stomach lurch. She couldn’t stand the thought of him touching Stania or kissing Ulrica and neither of them deserved her mother’s beautiful slippers. Besides, it may have been Teodor’s fault that she lost the attention of the Viscount, but that didn’t mean he deserved to be married to one of the shrews she’d been living with. She may be upset, but she wasn’t cruel. She would simply need to come up with a new way to gain her freedom and avoid Teodor when he arrived.

Her thoughts were interrupted by Finn jumping into the straw next to her. “What

are you thinking about?” he asked. “You look very serious. What was all that shouting at the house? Can I have some milk?”

She smiled at Finn and dipped a cup into the milk and gave it to him. “I was

thinking about all I need to do today,” she lied. She didn’t know what else to tell him. “And the screaming was excitement over a bit of mail that arrived.”

“Oh. Sounds boring,” he said, sipping the fresh milk. “Do you have things for

me to do today?”

“Absolutely. Come carry this with me, strong man,” she said letting him help

her carry the pail back into the house. Finn was exactly the distraction and reminder she needed. Thoughts of the prince and his announcement were soon forgotten. Mariella kept herself as busy as possible and collapsed exhausted each night, falling into deep and, thankfully, dreamless sleeps.

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Two days later another squeal brought Mariella rushing into the living area of

their home. Her sisters were practically falling out the windows as they screamed their excitement. It took her a minute to understand that they were yelling that the prince and his attendants were on their way up the road. Their mother came into the room, admonishing the girls to behave themselves and pulling them from the windows. While she tried to calm them down, Mariella escaped once again to the barn. No one from the royal entourage was likely to find her there.

It may have been weak, but hiding was the only plan she had come up with. It

was not as if she had other resources to use. After the temptation of seeing him during this visit was gone, she would find the means to take Finn and make her own way. A quick inventory of the house done while cleaning showed her most of the items of value were her father’s, so it wouldn’t be stealing if she took them to sell. She couldn’t help but worry about what else she might have to sell, and tried not to think about that harsh reality. It was hard to know Teodor was close and not see him, but she knew it was the right thing to do. As she waited, images of him smiling, talking, and kissing her came unbidden into her mind. Because her memories were all she had left of him, she lingered on the thoughts, not noticing that she had started to cry until a tear hit her hand. She stayed there for what she hoped was long enough for the prince to come, talk to her sisters, and go. She was halfway into the dining area when she realized her mistake. Standing in the center of the room was one of the prince’s men.

“Good afternoon, Miss,” he said with a polite bow. “Who are you?” “Only a servant girl, sir,” she answered keeping her eyes down. “Have you tried on the shoe?” “Of course not, sir. That would not be appropriate for one in my position.” “You must not be aware that your station is not an issue. The proclamation from

the prince is directed at all the women in the realm. Your Majesty, there’s another lady in the house,” he called out to the other room, and then said to Mariella, “Please come

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with me.”

Mariella thought of running and glanced around the room, trying to think of

way to escape. It didn’t take long to realize it would be pointless. There were too many people and too few places to hide. She would have to see Teodor again. Looking down at her ragged clothes, she wondered if he wouldn’t be the one to run when he saw her. She bore little resemblance to the woman at the balls. Without makeup and her hair pulled into a simple bun, likely with straw in it, perhaps he wouldn’t know her at all. The thought stung more than she liked, but there was nothing she could do about her appearance even if she had wanted to. She squared her shoulders and followed the man into the living area.

Teodor was standing in the middle of the room dressed in regal splendor and

looking more handsome and desirable than her memories. Damn, she thought, couldn’t I have been wrong about how sexy he is, or my attraction to him? Nervous about what she’d see, she met his eyes. Clearly her outward appearance didn’t concern or confuse him. She saw immediately he recognized her. His smile was warm, sensual, and full of promise. He could not be faking the happiness she saw in his eyes. It heated her blood, and she was awash in waves of emotion. She knew that when he asked, she would go with him and excitement warred with fear within her. He was more than she wanted with his power and prestige, and guarding her heart was going to be a primary concern.

He spoke first. “It’s you.” She gave him a small smile, not trusting her voice.



“Your Majesty, according to the proclamation, she must try on the shoe before

any decisions are made,” said the man who stood directly behind Teodor.

“Yes, Ramat. Bring it to me.” The man reached for and then presented the

prince with a red velvet box. Inside, in a bed of satin, was her slipper. Teodor gently lifted it from the box, looking as he had the night he found it on the stairs. He turned back to her and said, “Please sit so I may see if this fits you.” His eyes never left hers and she knew this process was simply to follow the stipulations of his announcement.

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Clearly, he knew the shoe was hers, but he was going through the motions for the others in attendance. She sat before him. Instead of having a servant do it, Teodor knelt in front of her and held out the shoe. Seeing him at her feet sent another thrill through her. She took off the one she wore, and put the glass one on. It was, of course, a perfect fit. “I found you once again,” he said.

“Indeed you have, Your Majesty,” she said, echoing her response from the final

ball. From her pocket, she withdrew out the shoe’s mate and handed it to him so he could slip that one onto her other foot. When he was done, he stood and took her hands, bringing her to her feet once more. As he leaned in to kiss her, an ear-piercing screech stopped him.

“It can’t be her,” cried Stania.



“It’s not possible,” Ulrica added. “My daughters are right,” her stepmother said. “This girl is nothing more than

a servant and a whore. She takes care of the house and barn as well as any,” Lenore paused for effect, “male visitors who stay with us.” Mariella cringed and blushed. She knew she couldn’t keep her past a complete secret from Teodor, but to have it shouted to a room of people? She was mortified.

“This girl,” he said through gritted teeth as he glared at Lenore, “is nothing of

the sort. How you choose treat someone does not define them, and you, madam, would be wise to hold your tongue.”

Mariella couldn’t keep the giggle inside. Nerves, fear, and joy were too close to

the surface and the laughter burst from her before she could contain it. The prince and everyone in the room turned at the sound. She tried to cover her mouth with her hands, but it didn’t help. She needed the release. “I apologize, Your Majesty, but I have wanted to tell my stepmother that for the last ten years.”

“Stepmother? Then this woman is your family?” He looked horrified.



“She is my family by law, not by blood. She married my father after the death of

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my mother. He is dead now as well.” “I am sorry for that,” Teodor said as he put his arms around her. It was the first time anyone had shown compassion for her loss and her situation. Tears threatened to well in her eyes. She blinked them back. “I am sorrier, however,” he continued, “about this woman and the years you have had to spend her with her and her offspring.” He looked at her stepmother again and took in Stania and Ulrica with his gaze. “You had a choice and you treated her like a servant instead of a daughter. It is a decision you will pay for dearly, although at the moment I cannot imagine a punishment harsh enough for you.” He turned to Mariella. “What would you think should become of them, Mariella?”

She thought for a minute of all the things she had wished would have happened

to them over the years. Finally she answered, “Nothing. They wanted me to have nothing and be nothing, so I wish the same for them.”

“Very well.” He turned to address the members of the court in attendance as

well as her family. “Let it been known. The members of this household are forbidden from traveling further than the nearest market and the ladies will not be permitted to marry.” The screams from her sisters were nearly deafening. “Are there any other servants in residence?”

“A stable boy, Finn. He lives above the barn.”



“He will come with us,” he said. She breathed a sigh of relief as he continued.

“All the duties of running this home will fall to those who live here.” He took her hands in his. “Will it take you long to pack?”

“No.” She looked down at what she was wearing. “I have a few dresses like this

one I would rather leave behind, but I do want to bring what I have from my mother, including the dresses I wore to the ball, and,” she paused and smiled, “my shoes.”

He took her face in his hands and kissed her softly. The tenderness sent a shiver

through her. “Go and get your things. I will send someone to put them in the carriage, and we will leave with Finn as soon as you are ready.”

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He turned to face her still-wailing family. “One more sound out of any of you

before her return. and I will add a month in jail to your punishment.”

Immediate silence filled the room, broken only by an occasional sniffle.



Mariella went up to her attic room and gave it a last look. She wouldn’t miss the

house, even though there were happy memories here from when her parents were alive. She could take those with her. She pulled out the chest with her mother’s things. In it she found a wearable day dress, left the old one behind, and went back downstairs. “I am ready, Your Majesty. All I need to bring with me is the trunk in the attic room.”

Through gritted teeth Teodor said slowly, “You lived in the attic?” She nodded.

He turned to her family. “Consider yourselves lucky I do not have this place burned to the ground, and you turned out into the streets.”

Stania and Ulrica made identical squeaks, but no other response came from the

women. He took her hand, and as they moved toward the door, Finn burst in.

“Miss Mariella, this man says you are leaving. Says I am leaving, too?”



“That’s right, Finn. The prince has come to take us to the castle.”



Finn’s eyes became so wide, Mariella was amazed there was room on his face

for his nose. “He’s a prince? Oh wow, that’s amazing. We’re really going to the castle? You? Me? Really? When? Can I ride in a carriage? What will we do when we get there? Where will I sleep?”

Mariella knelt down in front of him and put a finger to his lips. “Finn, quiet for

now, please. I’ll answer what I can. Yes, you and I are both going. We’re leaving now, and I’m sure there’s a carriage for you to ride in. As for what will happen when we arrive, that I don’t know, but I promise you will be safe, okay?’

She braced herself as Finn looked primed to start another list of questions,

but instead he took a deep breath and simply said, “Okay. I’m going to go look at the horses.” He ran out the door without saying another word.

“You may want to warn your men about him,” she said with a smile. “He can be

exhausting with his enthusiastic questions.”

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“I can only imagine. I’m still speechless from the first round.”



She wasn’t certain about the tone in his voice. She and Finn had both had

enough of people treating them poorly to last a lifetime, and she wouldn’t put Finn in a situation that would cause him more pain. “He’s a good boy, Teodor. I’m certain he won’t be any trouble. I can talk to him if you think he is going to be a bother. I’m sure…”

Teodor put his finger on her lips now and said, smiling, “You sound just like

him, dearest. He is completely delightful, and I am glad we are getting both of you out of this place. Would you like him to ride with us for the trip to the castle?”

His offer took her by surprise. She had been certain he would want her alone to

enjoy more intimate pleasures. This was unexpectedly thoughtful of him and she was touched. “I would appreciate that, thank you.”

Minutes later, her belongings were strapped to the roof of their carriage and,

without any goodbyes, they were on their way. It wasn’t a long ride to the castle and, as expected, the first twenty minutes were filled with Finn’s questions, which Teodor patiently answered. Mariella took the time to observe the prince. He answered Finn with honesty, kindness and truth, not talking down to him or treating him like a baby. By the time Finn fell asleep, Mariella knew the boy adored the prince.

She also knew she was in more trouble than she originally thought. She closed

her eyes and feigned sleep to give herself a chance to think. How would she be able to let this man into her life without letting him into her heart? Love only led to loss and pain. She had experienced and seen that with her parents and had no intention of letting it happen to her as well. She thought the constrictions of life with Teodor would be the main challenge. She was learning quickly there was a more subtle threat to her desire for a simple life – the charming nature of the prince.

She must have dozed in actuality because it seemed only minutes later she heard

Teodor say, “Wake up, Mariella. We have arrived.” She looked out the window and wished she could shut her eyes again. A mob of

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cheering courtiers and servants were waiting outside the castle. He must have seen the panic on her face. “What’s wrong?” “Why is there such a large crowd?” she asked. “Messengers must have ridden ahead to bring the news.”

So it begins, she thought miserably. I’m not here a minute and already I’m on

display. This will not work.

Finn was still asleep, and she cradled him into her arms. “Please calm the

people. I don’t want to wake and frighten Finn.” “You’re right. Let me take care of that.” The prince stood on the carriage step and the roar got louder. He raised his arms and made a motion for silence. Then in a loud and commanding voice he said, “We have a sleeping child with us and we need quiet as we bring him inside.” The din faded, and Mariella’s heart rate calmed slightly. She was certain there were tongues wagging about this child the prince and his bride were bringing with them, but Finn’s being safe was all that mattered. Leaning into the coach, Teodor effortlessly took Finn from her arms, settled him on his shoulder, and then offered to help her. She took Teodor’s hand as he led her from the carriage and into the castle. As they walked, he let go of her hand for a moment, where she saw him motion to a plump older woman who broke away from the others and followed closely behind. Once they were inside, he introduced her. “Mariella, this is Mrs. Chilton, the head of our kitchen. I can tell you from experience that she is wonderful with small boys. If you give Finn to her for now, she will take care of his appetites, and his questions, when he wakes up.” “It would be my pleasure, Your Majesty. Your ladyship?” She held out her arms for the boy, and Mariella hesitated only a moment before agreeing to have Finn placed in the custody of the woman with the warm brown eyes. “Send for him anytime.” “Thank you, Mrs. Chilton. I will do so,” Mariella said. After the two left, Teodor motioned to a tall man in well-pressed livery. “Grady, I know my parents are anxious to meet the woman I have brought home, but needless to

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say, we have had a busy day. Please tell them I will be taking a few minutes alone with my lady before I present her to them.” “At once, Your Majesty.” The tall man gave a short bow and left with practiced haste. They had not been there three minutes and Teodor had given directions to two different staff members, and he knew them by name. She was overwhelmed. A gentle kiss brought her back to the moment. “Won’t you come with me?” She gave him a hesitant smile and answered, “Of course.”

She wasn’t surprised when he led her to their grotto. It was even more beautiful

in the daylight but, because she knew what was coming, more ominous. She could see the detail of the fountain she had only heard, with its sculpture of a lion, water filling a shallow lily pond and the flowers she had smelled on the previous night. The small pavilion with the granite bench upon which they had kissed appeared bigger and, to her, colder. She walked over and sat down stiffly. She knew what he was about to say, and from the moment they arrived in the garden, she knew what she had to do. She prayed he would understand.

He sat beside her and kissed her deeply. Her hands went around his neck

involuntarily. It had been so long since their last kiss and from the moment she saw him again, she knew she missed him. Touching him. She missed touching him, she said to herself. Nothing more than that. She could feel the heat of his body, warming her through the thin material of her dress. Remembering the passion he had brought out in her the last time they were together made her ache to be closer to him. She brought a hand forward and unbuttoned his jacket and the top of his shirt, as he kissed his way down her neck. She caressed the base of his throat then moved her hand lower to feel the soft chest hair that peeked out from the opening she had made. Hearing him sigh against her skin brought a flood of wetness between her legs.

Although she wasn’t ready for the kiss to end, he stopped and moved back

slightly. He smiled and pushed a stray hair away from her face. “I never imagined those

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parties could actually have allowed me to meet the woman I want as my queen, but they did, and I have. You are intelligent, beautiful and compassionate. I could spend a lifetime with you and you would probably still find ways to surprise me. I am so fortunate to have met you.” He moved off the bench and dropped to one knee. “Will you marry me, Mariella?”

She took a deep breath, looked him in the eyes, and answered truthfully, “No.”

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Chapter Five



He wasn’t sure he heard her correctly. In fact, he was certain he hadn’t. He rose

from his knee and sat next to her, trying to put his thoughts in order. “Am I mistaken or did you turn down my proposal?” “I did, Your Majesty.” “I thought we’d moved to you calling me Teodor. A second ago, I asked you to marry me. The least you can do is call me by my first name.” “I wasn’t certain, given my answer, you would still want me to, Teodor,” she said with a hint of a smile. He took it as a good sign. She had kept him off balance throughout the parties. He supposed he shouldn’t be stunned she had done it again. “Why did you say no?” She started to answer then stopped. He saw her struggle with what she wanted to tell him. Finally she said, “You met my so-called family and saw a little of what I lived through, who I lived with. I’ve had ten years of taking orders and being alone. I can’t simply turn myself over in marriage into a life I can hardly comprehend and to a man who is practically a stranger to me. No matter how attractive and powerful he may be.” “I appreciate the compliment, I think,” he said. Her home was hardly a place of love and connection. After being around her stepmother and sisters for only a few minutes, he was more than ready to leave. He couldn’t imagine what it would be like to endure them year after year with no love, no comfort. He supposed it was only natural she was fearful of what he was offering, but he wasn’t anything like her step-family. Not that she would know this for certain, which was, he realized, the key. He was going to have to find a way to earn her trust, which meant he needed to keep her in his life. “I’d like to think I can understand your situation…” “And I can understand yours,” she interrupted. “I know you need to marry to

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keep your kingdom. I could see when we talked what it means to you, but I cannot say yes to give you what you want if it means I must turn my back on what I want.” He smiled at her Finn-like stream of sentences. He could appreciate her point, which helped him acknowledge her decision, no matter how he hated it. Thinking about how much he loathed attending the marriage balls, he said, “I have agreed to things I didn’t want, so I sympathize, but in the short time I’ve known you, I’ve come to care a great deal for you. I can give you a better life than what you have had.” “I know that as well, but I am still afraid it will not be what I want.” “Then will you tell me what it is you do want?” “Freedom, and I’m not foolish enough to mean complete freedom. I’ve seen enough to know it’s not truly possible, but I need some control over my own life, my own choices.” “Such as?” “Since my father died, I have dreamed of having days where my life was simple enough to decide for myself what time I want to wake up or go to sleep. If I want to linger in bed, or if I want to stay out riding all day. For years, everything has been decided for me or I’ve been told what to do. I ache to be able to live as I choose. With you, I’m sure I’d be allowed to sleep late, but there would be many other responsibilities and requirements. I don’t know if I can face that.” He said nothing, simply held her hands in his and thought about what she had said. Once he decided he wanted her, he never imagined her desires might not fit with his. Now he was sitting with the only woman he had ever considered marrying, and she didn’t want him or the life he could offer her. He almost laughed at the irony of his arrogance. During their brief times together, he had spoken of what he wanted and she had listened to him. If he was going to make this work, it was time to listen to her. “Mariella, one of the reasons I am attracted to you is your openness and your ability to show me what you desire. If marriage to me is not what you want, then I am willing to accept your decision. As much as I may want you, I will not force you.”

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“I appreciate your understanding.” “We both know, however, you can’t go back to your old home.” “This is true, so I have a suggestion,” she said hesitantly. “If you would be willing, I’d like to propose a compromise.” This was his Mariella – one surprise after another. “What are you thinking?” “There is nearly a month remaining until your official coronation as King of Galenet, yes?” “Three weeks.” “What if you and I take those same weeks to see if we truly suit each other? As a betrothed couple, it would be acceptable for us to live together as man and wife which will give us the chance to learn if what we share is something we wish to make permanent.” “You would stay with me as my intended during that time?” “As well as in your bed.” He blinked. Her surprises continued, her boldness intoxicating. “You are certain about that?” He wanted to be very clear about what she was offering before he agreed. “I am. It would help us to learn if we are compatible,” she met his eyes with a coy smile, “in all areas. I think that is very important, don’t you?” The sudden tightness in his pants answered for him. He nodded. “And what happens at the end of the three weeks?” “If we are a good match, then I will marry you. If not, I would have your word that you will grant me sufficient money to live in a home of my own with Finn. I want to have enough to be comfortable for the rest of my life.” He thought about what she was suggesting. While he didn’t like the sound of her leaving, with this plan there was a chance she would stay and be his queen. If this was the only way to show her he was not like her family and she should stay with him, then so be it. “Very well. I agree. We will leave for Galenet in the morning. I will ask for one

50

thing in return.” “What is that?” “You will tell no one of this arrangement. While I rather like the idea of having to court and seduce you, for many reasons, I would prefer this be something only we know about.” “Definitely. This is for us. No one needs to know.” “I would have your kiss to seal our agreement.” She laughed softly. “You’ve asked for two things, my lord.” “I suppose I have. I can see I will have to be careful about how I word my requests with you. May I have a kiss?” “With pleasure,” she said with a smile as she leaned forward. He took her face in his hands and gently took her mouth. He ran his tongue slowly over her lips, encouraging her to open them, and when she did, he took her tongue as well. It had been too long since their last time together and had he hungered for her for days. His cock hardened painfully and he considered taking her here, but he had enough of his sanity remaining to know a hasty coupling on a stone bench wasn’t a good way to seduce a woman. A brief surge of panic went through him when he remembered he could lose her at the end of the agreed time. He pushed the unwelcome thought away for now as he ended their kiss. “Before I completely loose control here,” he said, “let’s go back to the castle and tell my family of our engagement. We will tell them the wedding will take place along with the coronation as one giant celebration. If the situation should change, we will deal with it then.” He stood and offered her his hand. He thought about all he had offered her in the last few minutes and knew he was still a bit stunned to be walking out of here without her consenting to marry him. Still, he had found her, and he was determined to make her realize what he already knew – they belonged together. She put her hand in his, and he led her from the grotto.

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**** “So, she doesn’t want to marry you, prince perfect,” Ramat said stepping from behind a tree as he watched the couple leave. “How wonderful. For me, that is.” And not only did she not want him, being married was a condition of his coronation. Now he had another option for keeping Teodor from the throne. When he had seen Teodor bring his unusual bridal choice to the garden, Ramat had a good idea of where he was taking her. He waited for two minutes after they left, then headed for and hid in the grotto. It had been a smart move. Always looking for information he could use to bring down the pretender, he couldn’t believe his luck when he heard her turn down the marriage proposal and suggest one of her own. Bossy little bitch. He would have told her what her place was and then shown her. It was only more proof that Teodor had no business ruling. It had taken all of Ramat’s will not to laugh out loud and give himself away. In addition, he remembered the interesting information her stepmother had announced about the girl’s sordid past. That was something he could use in many different ways, but he needed to be certain of its truth. Tomorrow, before returning to Galenet, he would pay a brief visit to the girl’s so-called family. Knowledge was at the heart of power, and power was what he craved. He was certain he was going to be able to find a way to turn this tasty situation to his advantage. He walked back to the castle humming. **** Mariella dismissed the ladies’ maids who had been assigned to her and stared at her reflection in the mirror. The woman she recognized. The setting around her seemed impossible. Her nightdress, lent to her by the queen, was made of the softest material she had ever worn. The vanity table in front of her boasted so many combs, brushes, powders, and lotions that it could have been a stall in the marketplace, and having three women attend to her evening needs had been more unnerving than comforting. Their fussing made her fidget. She was thankful to finally be alone.

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As she brushed her hair, she realized she was being granted everything a woman could possibly want, yet for her, the situation was more out of control and frightening than anything she had faced before. Her heart seemed to be constantly racing and her stomach flipped every time she remembered the scene of Teodor on his knees and her turning him down. Even now, after they met his parents, told them the news and enjoyed a huge celebratory meal, all of which happened in a blur, she couldn’t believe she had the nerve to say that to him. In the moment, however, she’d known that if she accepted his offer, she would have walked out of one trapped life and into another. She was relieved beyond words when he agreed to the alternative arrangement she offered. During the seconds while he thought about her suggestion, her mind had flown to awful images of dark prisons, banishment, and even beheading. He could have said anything, even forced her to marry him, but he chose to grant her request. For that alone, her feelings towards him warmed, which was a danger she hoped wouldn’t happen too often. There was no doubt in her mind Teodor was a good man, kind and generous. She saw it in the way he agreed to court her, and in how he treated Finn, as well as every servant who congratulated him on his engagement. She couldn’t imagine how he remembered so many names, and clearly the castle staff thought of him as a favored son, which made her instantly part of the family. There was also no denying, much as she have wanted to, that he was goodlooking and completely desirable. The high heels she wore at the second two balls brought her closer to his face, but he still had at least four inches of height on her. During the dinner, she took the time between toasts and answering questions to look at him unguarded and uninterrupted. His hair was dark and although he wore it closely cropped in the current style, there was an unruly curl at his forehead giving him a boyish look. She had to keep her hands busy to stop herself from reaching out and pushing it out of his face. His smile appeared readily, and it warmed his blue eyes. She knew they became a deeper

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blue when he was aroused. She had seen that in the grotto earlier in the day, and remembering made her want to give him more reasons to smile and more occasions for his eyes to darken. Those thoughts made her ache for his touch. Nothing seemed overwhelming when she was alone with him. She wanted his hands running through her hair now, rather the gilt-handled brush. Regardless of the fact it had been a long and eventful day, she hoped he would visit her this evening. She never experienced a climax like the one he had given her on their last night together, and had tingled for days every time she thought about him, and each time muscles in her legs ached. For the first day after the final ball, she worried her stepsisters might remark on the constant blush in her cheeks, but, of course, they would have needed to actually look at her to notice anything, and she had worked at being invisible to them. It made her life easier. Until Teodor, no one truly saw her. his, too, was part of the reason she enjoyed being with him. Foolish ramblings, she thought with a shake of her head. She would need to learn a way to spend time with him without opening her heart. She knew the dangers of caring for someone. She took a deep breath and refocused her thoughts. Her knowledge of what love could do to a person would keep her safe from it happening to her. She didn’t mind giving in to the needs of her body, but that would have to be enough for them both. Most men wouldn’t concern themselves with more. As long as her heart remained safe, she could remain with the prince. A knock at the door brought her from her thoughts. “Come in,” she called, praying it was not another servant. “Good evening, my sweet,” Teodor said, stepping into the room, fulfilling her hopes and fueling her fantasies. “Too exhausted for a little company?” “As long is it is only you.” “Only me? Now that’s not very flattering. Although, considering you called our first kiss ‘nice’, perhaps I shouldn’t be surprised,” he said as he came up behind her and

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looked into the mirror meeting her eyes. She gave a light laugh. “I meant to say as long as there is no company other than you. I don’t think I can handle any more crowds. From the entourage in my house to the numerous servants who were helping me earlier, today has been overwhelming, to say the least.” “This is one of the challenges I am more used to facing and hope you will accept.” “I suppose time will tell.” “And time is what we have. Three weeks to determine if the life we can have together is a life you want.” “Have I thanked you recently for accepting my alternative to your proposal?” “Not in the last few hours, but if it would make you feel better, I’m certain I can find a way to remedy the problem.” He took her hands and led her over to the high fourposter bed which had its covers turned down by one of the many hovering servants. She had never seen nor slept in anything this size. Rather than use the small stepstool which had been beside the bed, he picked her up gently and placed her on the soft mattress. “It has been a long day, as you mentioned, but I thought perhaps some time together might be a good way to end it.” “Sounds like a wonderful idea.” Instinctively she knew he wouldn’t press her for more than she was willing to give. To be clear about what she wanted, she pulled him onto the bed with her, then put her hands on the sides of his face and brought him to her for a kiss. He kicked off his shoes, and as he leaned toward her, she felt his weight against her for the first time. Although he was big, she didn’t feel overwhelmed and her desire for him began to build. She was surprised when, without making a move to undress her, he stopped. “I brought you something,” he said, and held out a long black velvet box. “I hope you will enjoy it.” She took the box and opened it, expecting to see jewelry. This time it was her

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turn to be surprised. She pulled out what lay inside and saw she was holding two long lengths of red ribbon. Smiling, she said, “Oh yes, I think we are both going to enjoy this.”

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Chapter Six



He knew he was taking a chance, not only by coming to her after the day they’d

had, but also by giving her a gift which was a blatant suggestion of sex. However, since the night it happened, Teodor constantly found himself remembering how aroused he became when she had bound his wrists, and he thought this might be the perfect way to begin to court and seduce her. Normally, he preferred to be in control, but there was something thrilling about surrendering sexual control to her. If giving her this power brought them closer, it was worth it. “It seems only fair,” he said. “I took you from your home today. Now you…can take me.” Her smile appeared slowly and her pupils filled her eyes when she looked at him. “With great pleasure,” she said. “You will do what I ask? “I will,” he said. “And do nothing unless I tell you?” “Absolutely.” “And ask before doing want you may want?” “Yes,” he said becoming more curious about what he had gotten himself into. “Good. Then stand by the side of the bed.” He loved how easily she slipped into this role. He got down and did as she said. She slid off the mattress as well and walked around him. He was getting aroused simply from having her look at him. She touched him occasionally, her fingers playing gently against the material of his clothes. When she was in front of him, again she used the bed step so they stood eye to eye as she began to undress him. Her hands moved slowly over his shirt, undoing the buttons, and he pulled his stomach in when she reached the waistband to allow her to draw it out of his pants. He was surprised by how exciting it was to feel the material move against his skin. Knowing he could do nothing without

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her request or consent heightened the experience of what she was doing. She placed her hands on his shoulders and peeled the shirt from him, allowing it to fall to the floor as her hands flowed over his back, her nails raking him. Switching to the front of his body, she stroked the hair on his chest and flicked her nails along his nipples before moving lower to unfasten his pants. She undid the clasp, but rather than removing them, she reached in for his cock and stroked him with feather-light touches. He could feel himself grow harder in her hand and his pants, which, if they were tight before, were now completely constricting. Exquisite madness. Too soon, she withdrew her hand and returned to taking off his trousers. She reached around him to push them over his ass and allowed them to fall to his ankles. Having her pressed against him made him suck in a breath. He could smell the flowery shampoo she used as her hair brushed him. He was about to ask if he could touch her when she said, “Step,” and he stepped out of the pants. Kicking them away, he stood completely naked before her. Her eyes took him in, lingering first on his cock, which twitched in response, then on his legs. Never had he felt more exposed or more excited. She moved from him and climbed onto the bed, and said, “Join me.” As he did, he asked, “May I kiss you?” “Yes,” she answered, and he bent to take her in his arms and touch her generous lips. She opened her mouth to his embrace and he tasted her. She was sweetness and passion. Her mouth was made for him. And no one other than him. The realization she could be gone at the end of their agreement jolted through him. He pushed the thought away. As Galenet was destined to be his, so was she. He believed that completely, and he would convince her of it as well. “Lie down,” she said, bringing him back to the moment as she pointed to the pillow. “And put your arms over your head.”

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He did as she requested. Stretched out, his cock felt harder and more exposed than before. It didn’t escape his notice that she remained fully dressed. She leaned over him to tie his wrist to the headboard. He couldn’t stop himself from peering down her nightgown to the beautiful naked skin beneath. As she secured his other wrist, he knew torture wasn’t being tied. Torture was glimpsing what he wanted so close and being unable to have it. He was bound tightly enough that he couldn’t move, but not so much he was in any pain. Besides, he was uncomfortable enough with her straddling him, her gown bunched up on her legs, and him unable to take advantage of the situation. That part was making him very uncomfortable. “You are mine to do with as I wish, Teodor,” Mariella said smiling down at him. “So it seems.” She ran her fingers gently over his cock. “Your body’s reaction tells me this arrangement excites you.” “It does, but it doesn’t mean I am not longing to touch you.” “Good. Longing is precisely what I want you to feel.” “Then you have succeeded already.” “My dear prince, I have only just started,” she said as she reached for the hem of her nightdress and pulled it over her head in one smooth movement. He drew in a sharp breath when he saw she wore nothing beneath. Everything about her made him ache, the weight of her full breasts, the curve of her hips, the dark hair hiding her entrance from his view. And he could do nothing but look and want. She bent forward and covered his body with hers, kissing him passionately as her hands roamed down the sides of his torso. Having her naked against him was wonderful. He felt every touch more intensely than he could ever remember in the past. It was as if the loss of movement gained him an increase in sensitivity. When she brought her hands to his chest again, she pushed herself back and

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looked down at him. “I want more.” “More of what? I can’t do much in this position.” “More of your hunger,” she answered as she bent her head forward and slid her way down his body, her hair trailing and teasing him. She was straddling his calves when she stopped. Repositioning herself so she was against his side, rather than on top of him, she began to tease his cock with her hands. Torture, definitely torture. **** As the finger of one hand wrapped around his length, her other caressed his inner thighs. She was rewarded with a cry of “my lord,” and smiled both at his pleasure and her power to create it. She had never imagined she could be so inflamed by the excitement of another, but she could feel her own body responding to his reactions. Her heart was racing and her pussy wet and ready. She enjoyed the sight of his body spread out for her. Even tied up, he had an air of power about him and was clearly comfortable with his nudity, as well as he should be. He was strongly muscled from battle training, with a few scars she would have to ask him about. Every part of him was exciting. Another time, she thought, she would tease the dark hair covering his chest. For now, however, she wanted to learn more about what aroused him. Using only her index finger, she traced the head of his cock and the underside of the ridge. She was rewarded with a drop of liquid she quickly licked off. Savoring the sound of his moan along with his taste, she looked at him to see the hunger in his eyes. Under other circumstances, the intensity of a man’s gaze would have intimidated her. Tonight it made her more confident. She slowly stroked his rigid shaft, testing his different responses from lighter and firmer caresses. It was a heady experience to have a man completely at her mercy, and she was enjoying every part of it. While continuing to hold him in one hand, she reached between her thighs to

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tease her clit. She found it hard and sensitive, and could not stop a moan of her own when she touched her wetness. “Please,” he asked quietly. She turned to him and saw him staring at the hand between her leg. “Is there something you want?” “To taste you,” he said. She could hear the need in his voice and loved knowing the power to decide was all hers. She took her fingers from her folds and brought them to his mouth. His tongue came out and he licked greedily. The feel of his mouth sent shivers through her body which ended where she most wanted to feel his tongue. A rush of pleasure came over her as she realized there was no need for her to deny herself what she wanted. She didn’t even have to ask. “I am going to place myself above you,” she said as she took her fingers back. “You may enjoy me as I intend to enjoy you. However,” she paused and moved forward to whisper in his ear, “don’t make me come, and I don’t want you to come either. That is for later.” “As you wish,” he said, and she kissed him quickly before repositioning herself. She experienced a flood of warmth as she parted her legs and settled one each side of his face. Opening herself for him this way was unfamiliar for her. In the past, men had wanted her to pleasure them orally and only a few would take time to touch her this way. Her limited experience was how she knew she liked it, but now she could fully surrender to the delight. And she intended to. As she placed her mouth gently on the head of his cock, his tongue made its first stroke against the lips of her pussy. The sensation was exquisite. A rush of wetness flowed involuntarily from her, a feeling she had never experienced before. Perhaps holding off on the orgasm wasn’t her best idea. She continued to enjoy the taste of him, but soon found herself only able to focus on what he was doing to her. His mouth and tongue against her opening were

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creating tingles and shivers which were exciting, not only in the pleasure they caused, but in their newness. She had rarely had the opportunity to indulge in being touched this way, and never in this position.Every nerve ending in her body seemed connected to her pussy. Any pleasure she was building in him came solely as a response to what his touch was encouraging in her. In this position, she was fully exposed to his touch. He would lick the outside of her pussy first, laving the responsive lips. Then as she began to yearn for more, he thrust the point of his tongue deep within her. She had a moment to be concerned about drowning him, and then promptly forgot her worry in a surge of delight. She was almost sorry he didn’t have the use of his hands to add to the fire he was creating in her. Her moans and sighs increased each time she thought she was getting close to an orgasm. She had no doubt he could hear her reaction, as well as feel the vibrations on his cock. It was heady to realize her ability to give him pleasure was increased by her own. Their passions were as linked as their bodies. Finally, she lifted her head away from his cock, knowing if she stayed in this pose any longer, she was certain to explode. She raised herself on her knees, and pulled her leg back over his head. He kissed her calves, behind her knees, anywhere his mouth could reach. Her own wetness was left on her skin. “I want you deep inside of me,” she said. “No more than I want you to be there,” he replied. Mariella flipped around and straddled his body again, this time holding his cock just outside the opening of her body. She could sense the heat from him. Using his cock as she had her finger, she played with her clit and stroked her pussy lips, wetting him with her desire and making them both wild with need. When she couldn’t wait any longer, she guided him into her and sheathed him completely. They moaned together. She’d had sex with her on top, but tonight she had chosen it, and that made all the difference. Looking at him beneath her, stretched before her with his hands tied was tremendously exciting. She ground her hips against him and watched as his eyes

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closed and he bit his lip. Seeing his responses fueled her own, and she moved faster, the pressure of his body teasing her clit and bringing her closer to an orgasm. Wanting to delay the inevitable, she leaned forward, put her hands on his chest and lifted slightly, allowing his cock to partially slide out of her, before she lowered her hips again. Enjoying the sensations, she did this rhythmically, building the pleasure for them both. She fell forward and kissed him then, taking his tongue into her mouth, feeling it move as his cock did. He tasted of hunger and need. Sitting up again, she placed her hands behind her on his legs and, as she arched back, she was able to both move him in and out of her and rub her clit against the base of his cock. The combination of sensations, together with too many delays, sent her rushing toward her climax. “I’m going to come, Teodor.” “I am close, too.” “Don’t hold back,” she said between gasps. “I... don’t… think… I could,” he said. The sound of his desire and longing brought her over the top and her peak hit in rolling waves of enthusiasm. She dug her nails into his legs as she rode out the intense passion coursing through her. He lifted his hips pushing himself deeper into her as he roared his orgasm, sending another shiver of delight through her. Knowing the pleasure she brought him was almost as wonderful as what she had enjoyed. As the feelings diminished, she pushed herself forward and lay on his chest, her heart still pounding. His skin was hot and slick with sweat. Normally she wanted her bed partners gone as quickly as possible. Tonight, she was happy to know he would be staying with her. Another first. “I’ve never met a woman with so much passion,” Teodor said, breaking the silence. “You are amazing.” She liked knowing she was different from any other he had known. She certainly felt that way about him. She smiled and lifted herself up to untie him. “It helps

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to have an eager partner,” she said as she kissed his wrists gently, licking the inner skin and earning a sigh. “Guess I couldn’t hide my desire for you.” “I’m glad you didn’t. Knowing your need helped me give in to mine.” “Feeling your mouth, seeing you above me, watching you ride my cock.” He stopped. “I don’t know how I lasted as long as I did.” She kissed him. “I think we both surprised ourselves.” He returned the kiss. “Pleasantly, yes?” “Most definitely.” A yawn took her unexpectedly. “I suppose we should get some sleep. Tomorrow we leave for Galenet,” he said, pulling her to him and covering them both. “I hope you feel ready.” His words brought the only unpleasant shiver she experienced since his arrival in their bedroom. Not in the least, thought Mariella, but instead of answering out loud, she curled closer to his warmth and let sleep take her. **** “Wake up, wake up!” A high excited voice brought her abruptly from sleep. For a moment, Mariella didn’t know where she was and thought one of her stepsisters was yelling at her for oversleeping. Then a small weight landed beside her on the bed, and she opened her eyes slowly to find herself staring into the animated and bouncing face of Finn. “Wake up, Lady Mariella. You have to get going because today we are going to Prince Teodor’s other castle. You need to eat and get dressed. I can’t wait to leave. I want to see all the horses as we go. And I want…” “That is more than enough, young sir,” said a warm voice. Mariella looked to see Ida, one of the older maids who had assisted her the night before, come to the bed, scoop up Finn and put him on the floor. “I will help your mistress dress. Why don’t you find your way down the kitchen? See if Mrs. Chilton can give you something to eat or if she needs help packing food for the journey.”

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“Okay, okay. Maybe those honey cakes I saw her making earlier will be ready by the time I get down there.” He was gone so fast, it seemed he had hardly been there at all. Except for the suddenly beautiful sound of silence. Holding onto a sheet for covering, Mariella swung her feet over the side of the bed, and noted the soreness in new places on body. Remembering the passion of the night before, she quickly glanced at the other side of the bed. It was empty. “His Majesty is an early riser,” Ida said, seeming unfazed by the fact that the prince had spent the night in Mariella’s bed. She held out a dressing gown. “Has been ever since he was young Master Finn’s age, and I should know. I was his nanny.” “Normally I wake early as well,” Mariella said as she put on the robe. “Yesterday, however, had quite a bit more activity than I am used to. I am grateful for the chance to sleep.” She walked to a corner area set out with bowls and cloths for washing. Splashing herself, she sighed as the water touched her skin. Only in the summer did she have warm water in the morning. When she was done, she smiled to see a table set for breakfast. She sat, took a sip of the tea and closed her eyes in pleasure at its flowery taste. “You don’t want sugar in your tea, my lady?” Ida asked. “No, thank you. This is perfect.” Truthfully it had never occurred to her to ask for sugar. It wasn’t a luxury she was permitted in her home. She had been beaten by her stepmother when she was little and had been caught stealing sugar for her tea. Ever since then, she stayed away from it. It was odd to think that she could now have whatever she wanted, as much as she wanted, simply by asking for it. She lifted a domed cover and almost moaned aloud at the steaming food waiting for her. Picking up a fork, she sampled the eggs and savored the heavenly taste. Not only was she ravenous, but the last person to serve her breakfast had been her mother. Tears came to her eyes and she grabbed a napkin to quickly wipe them away. “I’m sorry if there’s a problem. No one knew your preferences, my lady, so there is some of everything for you this morning. If you would tell me what you like,

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I will send word with one of the servants traveling with you so arrangements can be made in Galenet.” “It is all wonderful,” Mariella said when she found her voice. “More than I expected.” Something Ida mentioned made her look at the woman. “You said you’ll send word ahead? Aren’t you coming with us?” “I was not planning to, my lady. It was assumed that you would want to choose your own maids and servants once you were in your new home.” “But you mentioned you’ve known Teodor since he was a boy. Don’t you want to be near him?” Ida smiled softly. “I admit it would be wonderful to see him grow into a king and then, if you and he were so blessed, to help raise your children.” Mariella ignored the flip of her stomach at the mention of children. “Would you be willing, then?” “If it were your wish? Of course, my lady.” “Call me Mariella. I keep looking to see who you are addressing when you say ‘my lady.’” “I don’t think that would be appropriate.” “Don’t I get to determine what is appropriate?” “I suppose you do.” Ida thought for a moment. “When there are others around it would be improper, but perhaps when it is only the two of us, I can do that.” “Sounds reasonable. So, you will come with us?” “I would be both pleased and honored,” she paused and added almost in a whisper, “Mariella.” She smiled. “Oh good, I feel better having someone near me who I have already met and knows Teodor so well.” Mariella held out her hands to Ida, who took them in her own. A warm, barely remembered feeling passed through Mariella. Brief images of her mother flashed in her mind, bringing more tears to eyes and lump to her throat. Ida put her hand to Mariella’s face and cradled it gently. “There, there, my dear

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child. Everything is going to be fine. You just finish your breakfast, and I’ll have a hot bath drawn for you. After that, you’ll be ready to face anything.” “I don’t know about anything,” Mariella said with a half-hearted laugh. “You trust ol’ Ida. Teodor is going to be a great ruler, but he’s going to be an even better husband. He has a good heart. Eat. I’ll be back soon.” Ida couldn’t know her words didn’t calm Mariella, but she did as she was told. She ate a little more of her meal, knowing instinctively that if she didn’t, Ida would either scold her or force her. Or both, Mariella thought with a smile. She didn’t realize until she experienced Ida’s kindness how much she missed the presence of her mother during this time. It would be good to have a woman friend she could trust in her new and unfamiliar life. When the knock came at the door a few minutes later, Mariella was ready for her bath. Only, it wasn’t Ida.

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Chapter Seven



Ramat stepped into the room stiffly and bowed automatically. “My lady, I am

Ramat, Captain of the Guard at Galenet.” “Good morning, Ramat. I remember you from the shoe fitting yesterday.” It seemed like much longer than just a day “I am honored. I apologize for interrupting your breakfast, but I was led to believe that Prince Teodor would be with you.” Mariella shifted in his chair. Nothing he said was unpleasant, but something about him made her uncomfortable. “He was here, but he left some time ago.” “He did not tell you where he went?” She felt chastised, as if she had to defend herself for not knowing Teodor’s whereabouts. “He was gone before I woke. If he should return before you find him, I can give him a message.” “No need. I will find him.” He bowed slightly and left. He was disagreeable, she thought. She wondered if the other members of Galenet Castle would be as cold to her. She was thinking and picking at a bowl of fruit when there was another knock on the door. As she called, “Come in,” she hoped to see Ida’s face. She was wrong again. Teodor entered and Mariella’s traitorous heart sped up at the sight of him. He was wearing the most casual outfit she’d seen him in – simple dark brown pants, kneehigh black boots, and a white shirt unbuttoned at the top. Her fingers itched to touch the exposed skin at his throat. He walked directly to her and gave her a soft, lingering kiss. “Good morning, my dearest,” he said, taking a piece of toast and sitting comfortably next to her. “Did you sleep well?” “Surprisingly, I did. I thought that the unfamiliar bed,” she paused, “and

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company might make it difficult, but after all the activity of the day, I was exhausted.” “And did you enjoy the activity?” he said with a seductive smile. “It was nice,” she said, and managed a straight face for a full three seconds before breaking into a laugh. She was relieved to see him laugh with her. “I couldn’t resist.” “I like it when you can’t. It has already made for some very wonderful experiences.” He leaned forward for another kiss, and she met him halfway. The way his mouth moved over hers heated her blood, made her want more. She had been kissed by other men over the years, but none of those ever had affected her. In fact, she did whatever she could to avoid contact with their mouths, whether it was kissing them elsewhere or encouraging them to do the same. With Teodor there was no desire to stop. Unfortunately, the kiss was ended for them when Ida and Finn returned. Ida knocked. Finn barreled in the moment the door was opened, ran to Mariella and started talking. “Lady Mariella, I brought you a honey cake. Mrs. Chilton didn’t think I could make it all the way here without eating it myself, but I did.” With an expression of great pride, he held out a slightly squashed round cake to her. She accepted it gratefully and immediately took a bite. “Thank you, Finn. Truly the best I have ever had. Would you like some?” She offered a piece to Teodor, which he took. Finn looked upset. “Prince Teodor! I’m sorry. I didn’t know you would be here or I would have brought you a cake, too. Or I wouldn’t have finished all but one of the ones I had. I could run back to the kitchen and get you one if you want.” “I am certain you can, but there’s no need,” he said warmly. “I am happy to share with Mariella.” “Whew,” Finn said, jumping into Mariella’s lap. “That’s a relief. Mrs. Chilton says I should always be curt… court...” His face twisted in thought. “Well-behaved

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with you.” Teodor smiled. “I think the word you want is courteous, and you are doing a fine job.” “That’s it!” Finn said, clearly proud to be understood. He helped himself to the remainder of Mariella’s breakfast, something he frequently did when they ate together at their old home. He was always hungry and she wondered if he would ever have enough to satisfy him. She wondered the same about herself when it came to the Teodor. The image of him bound to the head of their bed flashed in her mind, warming her cheeks. “Now, we mustn’t bother them any more this morning, Master Finn. If we are to be off before noon, Lady Mariella must have her bath and get ready,” Ida said. “I can help her with that,” Teodor offered with a leer. “Of course you cannot. There is plenty for you to do elsewhere. You will see your betrothed in the carriage in less than two hours. Now be off. The both of you,” she said. Mariella appreciated her competence and command as the two started to leave without another word of protest. “Oh, Teodor, I almost forgot,” Mariella said. “Ramat was here looking for you.” “That’s odd. I spoke to him less than an hour ago. When did you see him?” She frowned. “It was only about fifteen minutes.” “Strange. Oh well, I’m sure I will find him.” He smiled at her as he left. **** As soon as they were gone, Ida’s efficiency focused on Mariella as she led her to a bathing room. Ida gave her towels and left, promising to be back soon with clothes for the day. Mariella sank up to her neck in the hot water, thrilled with her newest luxury. She breathed in the lavender scent of the steam and decided this was heaven. If the bath would stay warm, she would gladly remain here forever. Especially since it would keep her from having to face the bigger changes coming in her life. She decided not to think

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about that now, and simply enjoy where she was and the soothing feelings of the bath. She must have dozed off because it seemed only seconds later Ida had returned and the water was cool. She tried not to be embarrassed as Ida helped her out of the tub and wrapped her in the towels before handing her a robe. When Mariella was seated at her dressing table, two maids from the night before appeared as if by magic to attend to her hair. Once they were done, Ida dismissed them and helped Mariella dress in another gown loaned by the queen. “Was that complete torture for you, dear?” Ida asked as she laced the stays of the dress. “Was what torture?” “Having them help you get ready.” Mariella blushed. “I tried not to fidget too much. Was I very obvious?” “Only to me, but you will need to act appropriately to lead the staff at Galenet Castle.” Mariella must have looked panicked because Ida laughed warmly and took her hand. “I have no doubt you will do very well. You know more than you think, I’m sure, and you will learn whatever else you need.” Mariella could only hope she was right. **** Teodor was already waiting in the coach as Mariella was helped in. He had been wondering about Ramat. He had not found him, but was told by one of the men that Ramat was going to be staying here for a few extra hours to follow up on a rumor of trouble. Teodor was wondering about Ramat’s actions, but those thoughts left when the carriage door opened and Mariella arrived. “You look beautiful,” he said, giving her a kiss. She was lovely in a blue dress that reminded him of the sky. No matter what she wore, however, all he could remember when he looked at her was how her skin glowed when she was naked. Waking to find her beside him had been a wonderful. As he gently caressed her arm, he considered rousing her, but then he remembered how much needed to be done

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before leaving and decided she deserved to sleep more. He could wait. Besides, it wouldn’t do for her to think he had only sex on the brain where she was concerned. He wanted her to know he saw her as more than a bedmate and mother to his future children. As if reading his mind about children, she asked, “Where’s Finn?” “He wanted to be closer to more of the horses, so he is riding in a separate carriage with Ida and a few other servants who are joining us. Which reminds me, I am glad you invited Ida. She will be helpful for you to have nearby.” “I hope so.” She was wringing her hands and fidgeting in her seat. “What is wrong, Mariella?” “Teodor, you know where I come from. I have no idea how to select servants or direct a staff, let alone how to supervise the running of a castle.” He could see the panic in her eyes. He wondered if he looked as nervous on his first trip to Galenet. “You managed your home very well, from what little I saw. Think of this as the same thing, only on a bigger scale.” “That’s an understatement.” “Ida will assist you in finding the right people to manage each area of the castle, and I can tell you, if you wish, about some of other servants who can help you. You will succeed. I’m sure of it.” Mariella sighed. “If you say so.” “I think you need a distraction to keep you from worrying for the entire trip,” he said, moving to sit next to her. As much as he was looking forward to finally returning to his kingdom, when they were alone in the small carriage, he could think about nothing but her. The timing may not have been right earlier this morning, but now was a different matter “Do you have something in mind?” “As a matter of fact,” he said, kissing her neck, “I do.” “A game of cards?” she asked coyly.

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“I don’t think so.” “Dominoes?” “Don’t have any.” “Dice?” “Not even close,” he said. “But getting close is part of the plan and part of the fun.” He pulled her onto his lap to kiss her more fully. Her arms came around him and her body pressed warmly against his. Oh yes, definitely fun.

As they kissed, Mariella was stunned at her how eagerly she responded to him,

how he pleased her.

Only my body, only my body, she thought over and over, until he unfastened the

back of her dress and pulled it down, exposing her breast. Then “yes” coursed through her as he licked and bit gently at her nipples. She held his shoulders and arched her back to push herself closer to his mouth. He sucked deeply at her skin and the sensation went directly to her pussy. She swiveled against him, and his erection pressed through the material of their clothes.

“I want more,” he moaned against her, and she knew she did, too. Not simply

more of the heat he was creating, but the comfort he was offering. The more she focused on his body, the less she thought about what waited for her at the end of this trip.

”Let me give it to you,” she said moving off his lap and reaching for the hem of

her gown. The clothes were suddenly too restricting and she wanted to be free of them. She tossed the dress to the floor and reached for him, unbuttoning his shirt and then helping him out of it, along with his pants and everything he wore underneath.

As she lay back on the seat, he slipped off her underclothes. “Damn, I am going

to be sorry when you start wearing more layers of clothing.”

The comment reminded her of where they were headed. Before images she

didn’t want could enter her head, she said, “Kiss me. Take me.” When he covered her with his body, his nakedness erased all other thoughts and she felt in control again.

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He kissed his way down her torso, adjusting his body so he was sitting on the

floor, when he reached her pussy. “You are already wet, dearest,” he said and his breath warmed her skin.

“I want you,” she said truthfully. Running her hands through his hair in

encouragement, she gasped as his tongue and finger worked together at her entrance. A rush of pleasure went through her as he found her clit. Another time she might have wanted him to be patient, but now she was grateful he picked up on her hunger for more. She wanted her need to erase all other thoughts from her mind as quickly as possible.

The motion of the carriage and the vibrations she could feel through the seat

added to the intensity of his touch, and her body rushed for its release – that wonderful mindless moment of ecstasy. Her feet found his shoulders and her ass lifted up as her climax hit her hard and fast. He pressed his fingers in deeper as he lapped at the wetness she could not stop.

As her orgasm ebbed, he slowed his movements, but that wasn’t what she

wanted. “Now,” she said, sitting up slightly. “I have to have you inside of me now.”

They soon realized the seats were too narrow for him to climb on top of her.

Instead, he sat and again put her on his lap, only this time her legs were spread and his cock was buried inside of her.

His hands were on her waist as they pleasured each other. Again, the carriage

movement helped as she alternated from grinding against him to riding him up and down. Lost in his own delight, he kissed her hard. Her lips, her throat, her breasts all received his fevered attention. Every dip in the road pushed him deeper inside of her. She was breathless with passion.

When his hands gripped her tighter, she knew his orgasm was close. She placed

her palms on his shoulders and let him move her in the way that would create the most enjoyment for him. The pressure from his fingers grew stronger. Mariella wondered if she would find small bruises on her skin tomorrow. If so, it would be worth it to have

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had experienced him losing control the way he had.

“God, Mariella, I can’t hold back,” he groaned.



“Then don’t. Let yourself go.”



And he did. She had a moment to be grateful the horses made too much noise

for anyone outside to hear them, as he roared his release. Seeing the expression of exquisite satisfaction on his face added to her own enjoyment of their coupling.

He slowly released her hips and brought his hands to her face, as his breathing

steadily returned to normal. Kissing her gently, he said, “You are incredible.”

“You were pretty good yourself,” she responded with a smile.



She slid off his lap and began looking for her clothes. As they were dressing in

the tight confines, she giggled softly. “Something you want to share?” he asked “I was thinking this gave new meaning to ‘carriage ride’.” She laughed fully and he joined her. “Are you more relaxed?” he asked. “I’m boneless. Does that count?” She liked the pleased expression on his face. “I think so.” Once they had righted their clothes and were sitting across from each other again, Mariella felt ready to ask about what to expect when they arrived and their conversation took the rest of the ride. It was night when they pulled up to Galenet Castle, but the building was so brightly lit, it shone in the darkness. Teodor left the carriage first, then held his hand out to her to help her. As she took in the assembled crowd, a deafening roar of welcome greeted her. It was a lovely greeting, but unnerving. There were more people here than she remembered seeing at the balls. Teodor led her toward the castle as people continued to shout and women brought her flowers. Her arms were nearly overflowing when Finn ran to her and caught her arm. “We’re here. Isn’t it great? Look at all the people. They’re cheering for you, Lady Mariella. I’m so glad you brought me.”

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He chattered on, but Mariella didn’t hear him. She was too scared and shaky. If Teodor hadn’t been holding her hand, she would have run and hidden in the first place she could find. He must have sensed her fear, because his hand gave hers a strong and reassuring squeeze. The noise quieted once they stepped into the castle, and only those who lived and worked with them were around them. Mariella was relieved when Ida found her. “Here, my lady, give your flowers to this girl and she will arrange them in your dressing room. I have been approached by two women who served the previous queen and they will show you to your chamber.” Mariella was reluctant to let go of Teodor, but he took her chin, gave her a kiss and said, “I’ve been gone a long time and have a lot to do tonight. You are in good hands with Ida and these women. I will see you later, if you are still awake.” “Okay,” she said with a shaky smile. “I hope things go well for you.” He walked away surrounded by a group of men, all passing him papers and talking at the same time. She allowed Ida and the other women to lead her in the opposite direction. **** As Teodor and Mariella parted, Ramat was on horseback, several hours away from arrival. He told some of his men he would be delayed by an errand in the Novarian provinces, but explained his reason to no one. Teodor might be besotted with his bride-to-be, but something about her background was not right. It was only two-hour ride back to the house where the shoe ceremony had been held. He knocked on the door, but received no answer. Remembering Teodor’s edict from the day before, Ramat called, “Ladies, please let me in. I come for information and to give you a chance to change the punishment so wrongly dealt to you.” The door opened slightly and the older woman said, “Who are you, and what do you want?” “I am Ramat of Galenet, Captain of the Guard. I want to know more about Mariella and I am prepared to change your future, if you give me what I am searching

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for.” He was allowed in, served weak tea which he drank as if it were the finest blend, and explained to the three women that he was the rightful heir to the Galenet throne and had a plan in motion for removing Teodor. He even hinted at marrying one of them should they help him become king. As he expected, none of these women had any love for Mariella, and nothing but hatred for the accused pretender. They were quick to offer their allegiance to him. “Her father may have been of noble blood,” explained the woman whose name he learned was Lenore, “but Mariella has lived for more than ten years as a servant and the last five as a whore.” “Tell me more, madam,” Ramat encouraged, and she did. For over an hour, all three were quite willing to recount in graphic detail Mariella’s life. She had been little more than a slave since she was twelve and started servicing guests when she turned seventeen. Ramat found himself getting hard at the thought of possibly using Teodor’s beloved before getting rid of them both. Perhaps he would force the man to watch as he took his betrothed. Just when he thought the information couldn’t be any more helpful, the oldest daughter mentioned a name that caught Ramat’s attention, the recently deceased Count Bristol. Although he cared little about the nobles of Novaria, he knew of Bristol. The man was the childless cousin of the Duke of Pelham, who was now the owner of Bristol’s lands. Learning of the connection between the count and Pelham was further proof to Ramat that he was on the right course with his plan. Clearly he was worthy of the crown – if he could only find support for his cause. Four hours after Teodor’s arrival, Ramat entered Galenet Castle. Home, he thought standing in the gallery, my home. It had been a tiring trip, but it had been worth the time. Having met Teodor’s intended, Ramat initially found her to be nothing special, and after talking with her family, he thought her particularly strange. Given her background, what kind of woman ran away from the attention? Not that Teodor was any better. What kind of man offered marriage to a woman who fled from him?

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Fortunately, since she didn’t want the prince, it was unlikely she would get in the way of his final plans. Hell, she’d probably be relieved when he had the pretender killed, assuming he didn’t have to kill her as well. Yes, he thought. It was good to be back in his castle.

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Chapter Eight



Teodor’s responsibilities began the moment he said goodbye to Mariella. By

the time he arrived in the room he used for work, he was surrounded by men who all believed their concern was the most pressing. He had to spend over an hour to sort out what needed to be done first and next. Initially, Teodor found the demands and bickering annoying, and his thoughts repeatedly drifted to being with Mariella. After a while, however, his passion for the position took over and the time sped by. Hours later, when he was alone in his office, there was a knock at the door. “Come in,” he said, expecting to see Vencor, who was often up as late as he was. “Welcome home, your Majesty,” said a feminine voice. Teodor looked up. “Georgina,” he said. He had not thought once about his mistress since meeting Mariella. When he had left for Novaria, he had assured Georgina their relationship wouldn’t have to change much since he expected to pick someone suitable who he could tolerate. He never anticipated meeting someone he would care about and with whom he was so sexually compatible. “What are you doing here so late?” “I’m here to give you a proper greeting. I knew you’d be up late and I knew you wouldn’t be with her.” She walked slowly to his desk, sat on a corner, and undid her robe, revealing that she wore nothing underneath. “I’m not with her because there is a great deal for me to do.” “Surely you need to take a little time for yourself? For your own pleasure?” She trailed a finger down her breasts to entice him. He took a step away from his desk and her. “Georgina, I know I told you that my search for a wife wouldn’t change my feelings for you, but I’m afraid I was wrong.” Georgina’s light blue eyes went cold. This was not going to go well. “What do

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you mean?” Her voice was as icy as her eyes. “Nobody was more surprised than I by this turn of events, but I have met a woman who I care about. I want her as my wife in all ways and I intend to be a good – and faithful – husband to her.” “You can’t mean that,” she said, hastily retying her robe. “We’ve been together for almost a year. I expected…” “I know you did. I am sorry for the false hope I gave you before I left, and I will do my best to come up with some suitable compensation.” “Compensation?” she nearly shrieked. “I was to be consort to the king! There is no compensation for that loss.” Now she had gone too far. “You have lost nothing but your assumptions, Georgina. While we may have been together these past months, I made you no promises about the future or any place you might have in my life.” She sputtered in outrage, but clearly couldn’t find anything to say. He had told her the truth, as harsh as it was, and she needed to accept it. He saw her face soften and knew she was going to try a different tactic. As he expected, she walked slowly to him, swaying her hips and playing with her loose hair. “I’m sorry, lover. I shouldn’t have been so harsh. Don’t you want to think this over? Perhaps if you give me a chance to remind you of what we shared.” Her arms came up to touch him, but he caught hold of her wrists and stopped her. He knew she wasn’t interested in him, only in what she might be losing, only in the life she could have because of his position and title. Nothing could have put him off of her more. “There is no need for me to think about. The only thing left is for you to leave.” She started to say something, but he interrupted. “Now, Georgina.” Whatever she heard in his voice had her stepping back and walking out the door without another word. Other than a trace of her perfume, she was gone. Teodor breathed a sigh of relief. Tomorrow he would have to ask Vencor if he knew anything about dealing with scorned mistresses.

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**** If Teodor came to her bed the first week they were at Castle Galenet, Mariella didn’t hear him. They had dinners together most nights, sometimes alone, sometimes with others, and always afterwards he returned to his offices to work. Clearly running a country required a lot of work. Not for her, however. Her days were much less structured and she was beginning to wonder what she was going to do to fill her time. She may not have liked her old life, but it was certainly never boring. She needed to ask Teodor, or perhaps Ida, for recommendations on how she could be useful in her new home. This morning, as she did most mornings, she woke up alone. She lay in the oversized bed wondering what her day would hold and fantasizing about acting like a child and hiding under the covers instead. She smiled at the thought when she realized that if that was what she wanted, she could, indeed, spend the day this way. No longer was she required to do the bidding of others. It was a heady notion. She was so wrapped up in her thoughts that she barely heard the light rapping on the door. Ida peaked her head in, met Mariella’s eyes and said, “Ah, you’re awake. Lovely. Don’t move and I’ll be back in a minute once I set some people to work.” Mariella did as she was told and didn’t move. Ida was as good as her word, and returned quickly with a robe over her arm, followed by a young girl. The girl was carrying a bowl and towels, which she put on a side table before curtsying and leaving. Mariella got out of bed, put on the robe, and washed her face before asking, “What time is it? I can’t tell from the light.” “It is nearly eleven.” Mariella almost dropped the cloth. “That can’t be. I’ve never slept that late.” “Then today is a first. Among many, I would guess. Clearly you needed the sleep and I dare say you deserve a late day. Your dinner last night with the former queen went quite long, I believe.” “It did, and Queen Honora was a gracious hostess, but I cannot have my days

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disappear by sleeping in. From now on, would you have someone wake me at six?” “Certainly not,” Ida said. Mariella blinked in surprise. “Your days and nights will be busy. You need your rest. I will wake you at eight.” “Seven.” “Seven-thirty and not a minute sooner.” Mariella smiled. She knew better than to continue arguing. Ida was wonderful and made her feel both coddled and supported. “Seven-thirty,” she agreed. When the next knock came, Idea went and opened the door, allowing in servants with food, table settings, and an outfit for the day. Mariella started eating and discovered she was starving, a result of her late rising. It took an effort not to eat too quickly. As she was finishing a piece of bacon, she noticed something missing. “Where’s Finn?” she asked. She couldn’t remember the last time she didn’t have to share her breakfast with him. He had joined her every morning since they had arrived. “Since you were sleeping, Master Finn had his breakfast in the kitchen and I expect he is now at the stables getting acquainted with the workings there. Assuming he has left the kitchen, of course.” A look of concern must have passed over Mariella’s face because Ida quickly added, “I saw him not long ago and he is doing splendidly.” “Thank you, Ida. It means a lot to me to know he is well.” “Then you have nothing to worry about. He is quickly becoming a castle favorite, and cook knows to always leave a little extra out for him at all times. Now, let’s focus on you for a change, my dear. You have a busy day ahead of you. It is time you started interviewing ladies to be part of your permanent servant staff. We’ve been rotating girls in throughout the week, but now it is time to choose.” Mariella had trouble swallowing the food in her mouth, and she felt the color drain from her face. “I have absolutely no idea how to do something like this. Will you help me, Ida?” “I will, my lady, of course. I can certainly tell you which girls are hard workers and who you can depend upon, but as for the different needs you may have, that I am

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not familiar with. Did you like the dowager?” “I did, why?’ “Then if it is all right with you, I will send someone to invite her to join us. She will know all distinct positions you need filled.” “That is a wonderful idea, Ida. Shall I write a note?” “Yes. That way you do not have to worry about the servant mistaking your request.” The dowager immediately responded that she would be delighted to assist and less than two hours later, Mariella, Honora, and Ida were sitting and meeting with women from all parts of the castle who wished to serve the new queen directly. Several of the choices were easy to make, and Mariella was pleased by the joy she saw in the faces of the girls who were to have their first chance at direct service to the royal family. There were some women who were clearly not right for the work and Mariella was grateful to have Queen Honora there to be the voice of that judgment. No one could argue with her commands. No one would dare, although there was one Mariella didn’t like from the start who looked as though she might argue, but changed her mind. By mid-afternoon, nearly all the positions were filled, and Mariella needed some time alone. In the last hour of interviews, she realized she had become completely caught up in the role of Teodor’s betrothed even though she still wasn’t convinced she would be able to stay with him beyond the next two weeks. And if they didn’t spend some more time together, it was going to be difficult to make her decision. After thanking and saying goodbye to Honora, Mariella went for a walk in the gardens. It was a beautiful day. She needed time in an open space and at least the illusion of being alone. She knew she could be seen from the castle and had gotten somewhat used to being guarded or chaperoned at all times. As she strolled by flower beds and topiaries, she smiled to herself, wondering if there was a grotto to be discovered. She was so lost in her thoughts, that she didn’t hear the woman come up to

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her until they nearly bumped. “I know why you didn’t choose me,” the woman said abruptly. “I’m sorry. Is this about this morning’s interviews?” “You know perfectly well it is. He told you about me and that’s why I was turned down.” “Who are you?” “My name is Georgina, and I promise you are going to remember me.” Mariella recognized her now, the one who looked as though she would talk back to the dowager. “I don’t know what you are referring to, miss. Your attitude during the interview was not what I was looking for, and your current rudeness only confirms my choice. Excuse me.” She tried walking around the woman, only to find herself stopped. “He’ll never care for you as he did for me.” Mariella didn’t reply, finally having a good idea of who she was talking about. “Did you hear what I said?” “I did, and I don’t recall asking for you opinion. The fact you are here and so clearly annoyed with me suggests that whatever your previous relationship was with the prince, it is no longer to your liking, which leads me to believe it is over.” The girl’s squeak of anger confirmed her suspicions. “Now, you will get out of my way or I will have you removed.” She knew her threat carried weight, as she heard two guards coming to see what the problem was. The girl had the sense to flee. “Are you all right, my lady?” asked the first man to reach her. “I am fine. Thank you for your quick attention to my situation.” “May we suggest you return to the castle?” Mariella was annoyed at having her walk interrupted, but she knew the man was right. She nodded and allowed them to escort her back. **** Georgina watched Teodor’s intended walk away with the guards. Mariella, she

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heard the old queen call her. She didn’t look like anything special. Georgina thought herself much more attractive and desirable. Still, this was the woman Teodor left her for, and that made her important. Georgina had worked too hard to seduce Teodor and be the only lover in his life and she was not going away without a fight. She had gotten a thrill seeing Mariella’s face when she made it clear she had known Teodor intimately. Once she learned her future husband had had a mistress, Georgina bet he would suddenly get a much colder reception in his bed. That would send him back to her in no time, and if it didn’t, Georgina was confident her powers of seduction would get her what she wanted. Let him marry the wench. As long as he kept her as his mistress, she would be happy. And she intended to be happy for a long time. **** Mariella missed him. It was as simple and as frustrating, as that. Teodor was busy during the day and well into the night. If they didn’t have an engagement for dinner, she barely saw him. And, damn it, she wanted to see him. This wasn’t, she told herself, about caring for him. It was about wanting a little company while getting used to this new life and place. Finn was fun to be with, but he was no substitute for adult conversation. Not to mention some of the other adult needs she had. She wanted his kisses and his touch. She wanted to please him and be pleased in return. He had awakened a deeper passion in her and she hungered for him. Since it took an occasion to bring them together, Mariella decided to create one. She wrote Teodor a note inviting him to dinner with her at seven, put it in a sealed envelope and had a servant bring it to him. He wrote back he would be pleased to join her. For the joy of it, she spent the hours before dinner getting ready, taking a long fragrant bath, and applying her makeup with extra care. Since they would be alone in her room, she wore her simplest gown and as little underclothing as she could get away

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with. She ordered a meal with decadent sauces, the freshest vegetables, and gave cook leave to create whatever desserts she desired. The food arrived shortly before Teodor did. Both looked wonderful to her hungry eyes. “Looks like I’m right on time,” he said, giving her a kiss, and pulling out her chair for her. “And the meal looks wonderful.” Presented beautifully on a table set for two was chicken with honey orange sauce, fresh garden vegetables with butter and rosemary, roasted potatoes and an assortment of tiny chocolate cakes. “I’m glad you approve. It’s not easy to come up with a plan to entice you away from your work.” He leaned forward and fed her some chicken. “Any request from you is enticing.” “I’ll have to remember that when I need more funds to drape myself in jewels.” “As long as you are draping yourself in nothing but those jewels, I will happily raid the treasury.” “Good to know that all it takes is to give you the proper motivation.” He wiggled his eyebrows at her and she laughed. “I hear Finn has been doing well in the stables.” “Tell me more,” he said. “Whose ear has he talked off?” “Well, fortunately, neither the Master of the Stables nor the horses seem to mind, but I understand his first riding lesson was a sight.” She told him the story as Ida had relayed it to her, and put in the flourishes that Finn gave as well. They continued to exchange news about castle life, and Mariella explained how the dowager queen had helped her earlier with the final selection of her personal servants. “Honora must have been pleased.” “We both were.” They were up to dessert and enjoying feeding each other different bites of the cakes, all of which had their own unique flavors. “So, what has been keeping you occupied these last days?” “It would probably be a shorter list to tell you what hasn’t.”

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“I know your mistress hasn’t.” His dessert stopped halfway to his mouth. She kept her tone light, and asked, “Were you planning to tell me about Georgina?” “I know this is a foolish question, but how do you know about her?” “I met her today. Twice, actually. Once when she tried to earn a place as one of my maids, and then again when she confronted me in the gardens.” “Mari, I am so sorry. I should have told you about her, but things have been so busy since my return. I hope you know…” She put a finger to his lips. “I hope you know I am not upset to have met her or know she exists. It would be more surprising if you had lived like a monk for the last year. Besides, you have never once questioned me or concerned yourself about my lack of virginity. It would be hypocritical of me to question your past.” “She is definitely past. I told her on our first day back.” “Well, if you hadn’t made that clear to her before, I think I did today.” “I would feel sorry for her if I weren’t certain she deserved it.” “Oh, she most certainly deserved it.” She finished her glass of wine and then said, “Speaking of deserving things, having dinner with you tonight makes me realize that we have not been able to spend much time alone together since we arrived here.” “That’s true. It seems the closer we get to the coronation, the more problems there are for me to try to solve.” “I don’t doubt it, but I admit I’ve missed you and I’ve been feeling a little…” she paused to find the right word. “Neglected.” He took her hand. “I’m sorry, Mari. I don’t want you to feel that way. I’ll do anything I can to make it up to you.” “Anything?” She gave him a wicked smile. “Oh no, perhaps I shouldn’t have phrased it that way.” “Too late. I’ve been thinking about it today, and I’ve come up with a solution. Going to bed alone and unsatisfied each night has not been pleasant for me, so I think

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you need to be punished.”

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Chapter Nine



“Punished,” said Teodor unable to keep the surprise from his voice. “And how

do you intend to do that?” “Well, with all the free time I’ve had in the evenings, I’ve been able to devise an appropriately evil plan. Are you willing?” He wasn’t certain he liked the sound of an evil plan, but coming from Mariella, he wasn’t certain he minded either. “Is this going to involve your red ribbons?” “Most definitely, but not necessarily the way you think. Are you done with your dessert?” He took a swallow of wine. “I am now.” “Then come with me,” she said and helped out her hand. He took it as she led him to the bed and began to strip him of his clothes. “Shall I help?” “Not yet,” she said as she finished unbuttoning his shirt and slid it off his shoulders. She traced her hands down his chest, teasing the hair, then leaned closer to kiss and lick his nipples. He moaned softly as blood raced to his cock and his skin heated. He never imagined such a light touch could cause such a strong reaction. “Take off your trousers,” she said, as she climbed onto the mattress, “and stay standing at the foot of the bed.” Stripping for her while she stayed dressed made him harder still, and he had trouble getting his pants over his cock. When he was done, she said, “Face me.” He did. While he was undressing, she had taken out the ribbons and now she tied them around each of his wrists. “Raise your arms up and out, please.” She created a ‘Y’ with her own arms to show him what she meant. When he did as she said, she stood on the bed and tied the other end of the ribbons high on first the left, then the right bedposts.

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“Now what?” he asked. “Now, you get to watch.” “Watch?” “Yes. For the past several days I’ve been aching for your touch, but now I am going to touch myself instead. I am going to give myself the pleasure you haven’t and the only pleasure you will be allowed… is to watch.” He groaned loudly as she came forward, kissed him, briefly teased his cock, and then moved back to lie on the pillows at the head of the bed. **** The idea for this had come to her last night. She was hoping he’d join her before she fell asleep and resisted masturbating to be more ready for him. When she woke alone again in the morning, she decided enough was enough. When she first saw him standing naked in front her, she almost lost her nerve and was about to settle for a more traditional night of lovemaking. Then she decided she wanted him to be as hungry for her as she was for him, and this was a perfect way to do it. Slowly she undid the laces on her gown and began to strip for him. It wasn’t something she could peel off as she had with his shirt, so once the bodice was loose, she reached for the hem and pulled it as smoothly as she could over her head. She was rewarded for her boldness by a moan from Teodor. “You like what you see?” “Very much.” “And if you could touch me now, where would you start?” “With your breasts.” “Like this?” she asked as she lay back on the pillows and ran her fingers between her breasts before moving to circle and pinch her nipples. They hardened under her attention. “Lord, yes.”

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“I like how that feels. I’m sure I would enjoy it if it were your hands as well.” She continued to play with her breasts, then asked, “What would you do next?” “Work my way down your beautiful body,” Teodor said hoarsely. “Sounds wonderful,” she said as she moved her hands to the flat of her stomach. She had never explored herself so slowly and carefully, the way a man might, and found herself becoming more aroused. “I can feel why you would do this. I like the softness of my skin.” “As do I, dearest. You have no idea how beautiful you look to me.” “Then you need to tell me more often, and show me.” “You’re right. I do. I will.” “Good, but I am not going to untie you yet.” “Somehow I didn’t think I was going to be let off that easily.” She smiled. “Smart man. I am aching for more. I think I need to move my fingers lower.” He moaned in what she assumed as agreement as she extended her legs and gently touched the covering of hair at her entrance. She had not been certain that she would be able to follow through when she arrived at this point, but now she was already so excited, she couldn’t not imagine stopping. Her finger slipped into her cleft and she moaned when she felt how wet she was. A second finger joined the first before she thought about it and her legs opened wider, almost of their own accord. “You are exquisite,” Teodor whispered. “You like what you see?” “More than like. It is killing me not to touch you, yet seeing you give yourself pleasure is a thrill all its own.” “I cannot tell you how wonderful it feels. It is not as intense as when you touch me, but it is still very arousing.” She moved her fingers up to touch her clit for the first time and her hips lifted off the bed. “Oh, my God.” “It’s so arousing to watch. Don’t stop. Bring yourself the satisfaction you’ve

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been missing.” His words encouraged her, and she continued to finger herself, focusing on the point that gave her the most pleasure. She teased herself by changing the speed she stroked her clit, and after a while she couldn’t tell her moans from his. “I want more,” she said breathlessly. “I know, Mari. Use your other hand. Touch yourself deep inside.” Hearing him through her passion, she did as he suggested and was rewarded with a rush of sensation and wetness. “Oh yes,” she almost screamed. This was the sensation she craved, the release she needed. Sensing what her body wanted, she found a rhythm of thrusting her fingers and rubbing herself that quickly brought her body to the peak she desired. “I’m going to… I can’t hold back.” “Don’t,” he said. And she didn’t. Her climax hit her in an intense rush of pleasure. She was so overcome by the feelings she almost lost contact with her body, but quickly returned to the point of greatest sensitivity. She heard his whispered “yes” and opened her eyes to connect with his. Seeing him at a distance, knowing he was watching her every move brought on a second wave and her orgasm unexpectedly peaked again. Her legs bucked and she felt her bottom lift off the bed. She sustained her pleasure for longer than she expected and after she lay back with her arms at her side, drained. “How are you feeling, my dearest?” “I am exhausted,” she said with a stretch, which triggered another small moan from him. “And sated.” “I’m not surprised.” “Perhaps I should keep you tied there. Then I know you will be with me in the morning.” “You can’t do that to me. I have to touch you before I go mad,” he said through gritted teeth.

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She smiled and took pity on him, besides she was aching to feel him hold her as well. The moment the ribbons were loose, he pulled her close and kissed her until they were both breathless. “That was one of the most frustrating and erotic things I have ever experienced.” “I hope that’s a good thing.” “I think so, although I don’t want to do anything requiring punishment for a while.” He picked her up in his arms and brought her into the bed with him. “I’m glad to hear that, although I did have fun.” “So I saw. I want to be inside of you.” She wrapped her leg around him and he slid easily into her. She was wet and he was beyond ready. It didn’t take long for him to reach his peak and come deep inside of her. “I need to stay connected to you,” he said as he took her face in his hands. “I want to promise you something.” “What’s that?” “I will not wait so long again to have time alone with you.” “I am going to hold you to that promise, your Majesty.” “I most certainly hope you will.” **** “Who are you and what are you doing there?” Ramat asked the woman who was standing outside Teodor’s bedroom. He had been on his way to bother Teodor with a nonsense problem when he saw her peering through a small opening in the door. Not surprisingly, she jumped and squealed, but had the good sense to cover her mouth. He dragged her down a hall, before pushing her up against a wall. “I asked you a question.” “My name is Georgina, and I am trying to learn what kind of a hold that Novarian witch has on my Teodor.” “Your Teodor?”

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She bit her lip, clearly upset to have revealed that, then decided to tell him. “Yes, I was his mistress before he went off to find a wife. He was supposed to stay with me even after his marriage, but somehow she has gotten her hooks into him.” “And have you learned anything during your spying?” “Why should I tell you?” “Because if you don’t, I will have you flogged and imprisoned for treason.” A whimper escaped the woman. “And because if you do tell me, and my plan succeeds, you will see both Teodor and his little wife punished for what they have done to you while you are rewarded beyond your dreams.” “What is your plan?” “What have you learned?” She looked down, thinking about her decision, then apparently realized she had no decision to make. “Very little, other than the two of them like to play some sort of sex game. I saw Teodor with ribbons on his wrists before they walked over to the bed. After that, I couldn’t see anything, just hear them moaning.” Ramat was uncertain what to do with this new information, but he thought he might have a use for this woman. He had no intention of rewarding her in any way, but as long as she thought so, she could be useful. And there was one immediate way he wanted to use her. He stroked a hand down her cheek and felt her skin flush. Delighted at her quick response, he said, “I am Ramat, the Captain of the Guard. Come with me, Georgina, and we will begin to plan our future.”

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Chapter Ten



Mariella ate her breakfast in a daze, barely tasting her food. Sipping her tea,

she could not believe she had the nerve to perform that way in front of Teodor last night. Her cheeks felt as though they might have a permanent blush on them. As scary as it had been at first, by the time her orgasm hit, it was liberating. To enjoy her own pleasure, and know that he wanted to participate but couldn’t, was an unforgettable experience. And rewarding as well. He had been in bed with her in the morning, and kissed her awake. If it had been a wonderful way to fall asleep, it had been a better way to wake up. Now as she ate, however, the intimacy of the memories made her wonder if only her body was involved or if she had broken her promise to herself. How much had she come to care for Teodor? She knew she liked him, liked being with him, but if her heart was truly in danger, then she was going to have to leave if she hoped to protect herself. Before she could worry any more, Ida came into her sitting room. Since they were alone, she said, “Good morning, Mariella.” “Good morning. What is on my busy schedule today?” “After you finish eating, the seamstresses are here. You must have the final measurements and fittings for dresses.” Mariella’s appetite vanished. A few days ago, ever inch of her had been measured for her wardrobe. Being draped in materials and having to get in and out of them for hours was not her idea of a fun morning. Getting dressed only once a day in all the layers required was plenty. She looked at her robe, and said, “I suppose I’m as dressed as I need to be for the seamstress, yes?” “Definitely. According to the head seamstress I met earlier, they have quite a few of your dresses near completion and will be adding embellishments as necessary. In addition, they are bringing a wide selection of under- as well as over-garments.”

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Mariella flushed. “They?” she asked. “Yes, she’s brought a group of women with her to assist.” In not time, a small army of dressmakers buzzed around her dressing room, and swatches and patterns covered the furniture. Every inch of Mariella’s body had been draped in endless yards of fabric. She’d been corseted, re-corseted and occasionally allowed to breathe freely. She now knew which colors looked good on her, which styles made her look dowdy, and which materials made her itch. It was more knowledge than she’d ever needed or wanted about clothes. The only thing more daunting than the fittings was the knowledge that she was expected to need all these outfits. And what if I leave in two weeks? Her thoughts from the morning returned and a chill passed through her. She had gotten so caught up in the process again that she had forgotten she might not choose to stay. She looked around the room. What would become of the dresses? Or Ida? What would happen to Finn? Would he even want to leave if she did? He had adapted to castle life quickly and was creating a home here. It hadn’t occurred to her earlier, when she made this deal with Teodor, that others would be affected by her final decision as well. Did that mean she really didn’t have the choice she wanted? Did she have to stay? I can’t handle this. I don’t want this, she thought. She brought her hand to her chest and sat down heavily, heedless of the pins in the unfinished dress she was wearing or the horrified gasp of the seamstress. Ida saw the uncharacteristic move and came over from the corner where she was helping one of the cutters organize Mariella’s earlier choices. “My lady, are you unwell?” “Send them away,” she said in a whisper. “Please.” She couldn’t keep the panic from her voice as she covered her eyes with her hands. “Of course, as you wish.” Ida got immediately to work. Mariella was grateful for her efficiency, and could hear the bustling going on around her. She knew she

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should thank the women who had helped her this morning, but kept her eyes shaded and tried to calm her heartbeat while thinking about what could happen to two people who mattered to her. This was another reason why caring was dangerous. Not only could she get hurt, but she could hurt others as well. This only reinforced for her why she had to keep her distance from the prince. Having him in her bed was wonderful, but he couldn’t be in her heart. She took some deep breaths and began to think clearly again. If she left Teodor, Ida would be fine here or back in Novaria. Teodor wouldn’t let any harm come to her. As for Finn, she would ask for him to come with her. If he agreed, she could tell people she was his widowed mother, or his sister. She would make certain he wouldn’t be left alone one way or the other. She didn’t know how long she sat there when a masculine voice, soft with worry, broke her from her thoughts. “Mariella?” She moved her hands to see Teodor kneeling before her. “My poor love, you look worn out. From the expression on your face, I’d say dress fitting is worse than policy making.” She was surprised to see him. “It has been more challenging than I expected,” she said, keeping her response simple. Although he had promised they would be together more regularly, she rarely saw him during the day unless they had an event. His days were filled with meetings and she usually had some aspect of castle management to attend to. Seeing him so close to her, she couldn’t deny having him near made her feel better. “It’s been a long morning.” “So it would seem. It’s already afternoon. Ida found me to tell me you were not feeling well.” “I will be fine. I am sorry to have pulled you away from your work.” “Nonsense. It’s important to me to be able to be here for you.” He dropped his voice conspiratorially. “Ida says I’m neglecting you, although she doesn’t know about

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last night. I think she may be right, but don’t tell her I said so. I’ll never hear the end of it. Perhaps you could use some fresh air and time outside.” “What do you have in mind?” she asked, sitting up slightly. “How would you like to see Galenet Castle from a distance and from the back of a horse?” “That sounds absolutely wonderful!” She smiled honestly for the first time in hours, then cringed suddenly and sank back against her chair. “What’s wrong?” “I have nothing to wear,” she groaned. After a pause they both started laughing. It was the best feeling she’d since breakfast. “I’m certain we can find something for you.” An hour later, she was dressed in the clothes from one of the former queen’s ladies, had visited briefly with a completely happy Finn, and was riding across fields with Teodor by her side.

The countryside of Galenet was beautiful and Teodor was thrilled to be with her as he pointed out the various points of interest. As good as it was to be back and working with his nobles again, he found that he missed being with his bride-to-be. True, he knew that she might walk away from him at the end of their agreement, but he wouldn’t allow himself to consider that. For now, he focused on enjoying her company and creating a place for her in his life. It was better than thinking about his problems with the Council of Dukes. The missing Duke of Pelham had yet to make an appearance other than through threatening letters to him and other nobles. It was creating more unrest than it should and causing concern among the dukes. He could sense them withholding their trust and delaying agreement on new policies. “Do you know what I’d like now?” Mariella asked him, breaking into his thoughts. “Tell me,” he said.

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“Speed,” she answered and urged her horse into a full gallop. As he followed, he couldn’t help but smile. He loved the way she did things full out and her willingness to let go, whether here or in bed. The thought of being in bed with her made it challenging to ride, but it was the best challenge he’d had all day. Without warning, Mariella turned her horse in the direction of a forest they were riding alongside. He caught up to her shortly after entering the dense woods. “It’s beautiful in here,” she said. “It is, and I’m glad you turned because a little further in, there’s a small lake where we can rest our horses and enjoy the food Ida brought us from the kitchen. Sound good?” “Delicious.” The way she said that made him remember how her mouth felt wrapped around his cock, and he found himself getting hard again. He wondered what she would think of making love outside. He led her through the brush until they came out in a clearing. He held her mare as she climbed down, then tethered the horses to a tree near the water so they could drink. Spreading the saddle blanket on the ground, he sat her beside him as he opened the satchel of food and wine. As they enjoyed the meal, his worries about the absent duke melted away like butter on the biscuits he was eating. When he was with her, the weight of his responsibilities lightened. Ida was right. He had been a fool not to spend more time with her this week. Listening to her dress fitting stories was somehow the most important thing in the world, and he laughed at her funny impressions of the servants poking and pinning her. Noticing the direction of his thoughts, he stopped drinking mid-swallow and almost choked. Was this why his father required him to have a bride? Perhaps it wasn’t as crazy an idea as he originally thought. He imagined it would be wonderful to know that each day he could come to her rooms and be able to let go of the concerns of the day. This also might explain why his mother stayed out of the political issues of the kingdom, to

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enable her husband to have a place and person with whom he could truly relax. There was something uniquely appealing about it. He could face a room full of dukes day in and day out if he knew she was waiting for him at the end. When the meal was complete, he leaned toward her with the intent of seducing her, but he noticed that the sky had unexpectedly darkened to grey. “We should head back to the castle before this storm hits.” Mariella froze mid-movement, and he saw the color drain from her cheeks. “Stst-storm?” she managed. “I assume from your expression you don’t like thunderstorms?” She shook her head in answer. “Then we’ll leave now.” He untied the horses, helped her mount up, and led them out of the woods. By the time they reached the open fields, the rain had begun to fall and there was a rumble in the distance. He heard a whimper, but wasn’t sure if it came from Mariella or her horse. When he took her hand and found it icy cold, he knew he had to hurry. **** “Where the hell is this so-called king?” the Duke of Pelham yelled at Ramat, who made a show of looking embarrassed and concerned. The Duke had arrived over two hours ago and was now pacing in his room, waiting to be summoned for his audience with Teodor. “I don’t know, your Grace.” Truthfully, Ramat hadn’t expected Teodor to be gone when the Duke arrived. He was planning to find various ways to delay the man’s meeting with the Prince, but when Georgina had come to tell him that he had left with Mariella, Ramat took it as yet another good sign. Georgina was proving to be willing to help with his plan, as well as willing to help in his bed. She was an amusing and useful diversion. But his thoughts were brought back to the moment as the Duke continued to rage. “This is completely unacceptable. I have traveled a great distance to speak with our new sovereign and I expect to be received properly and promptly. It’s bad enough

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I’ve been ignored for the past several months, but to be put off once I’ve arrived is inexcusable.” Ramat had made certain he was the first person to come to Pelham’s suite, which wasn’t difficult since no one had been told of the Duke’s intended visit or arrival. Ramat had intercepted all communication between Pelham and both the King and his Prime Minister. He had men loyal to him watching the Duke’s arrival, and only Ramat had known he was coming. “I am sorry, sir, truly. I am not certain where he has gone, although I heard that he might be spending time with his future queen. Perhaps he is with her, trying to make certain that…” Ramat let the sentence end unfinished and put on his best guilty face. “Making certain that what?” “Sir, I shouldn’t say.” “Perhaps not, but you will anyway,” the Duke said, stepping closer. Ramat hesitated, using the pause to convince the Duke he was afraid to give over the information. “Now, Captain.” “Sir, the woman the Prince brought back from Novaria has not agreed to marry him. She requested, and was given time, to consider his proposal.” “Isn’t his coronation dependent on his marriage? Didn’t you tell me that was the reason for those ridiculous parties?” Ramat nodded, knowing he had been right to share that information. The Duke frowned. “I don’t know which is worse, her stupidity or his weakness. Do any of the other council members know of this?” “No, sir.” Pelham sat and thought for a moment. “Good. You will not tell them. I am sure it will be useful leverage at the right time, but I will decide when that is. Understand?” “Yes, sir, of course,” Ramat said. He understood completely. He understood that things were going according to plan. ****

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The thunder was nearing, but the castle was still too far away. Mariella couldn’t

keep panic from rising in her throat. Nothing could calm her, and with the rain coming down harder, there was no way to ride faster without possibly injuring the horses. If one of the horses got hurt, Mariella’s knew, they couldn’t reach the castle. She was beyond caring if Teodor saw how upset she was. It was taking all her willpower not to cry out. When a lightening bolt tore through the sky, startling her horse, she was unable to hold back a scream. Teodor was immediately by her side, soothing both woman and animal.

“Ride with me,” he said. As the thunder boomed, and before she could question

him, he pulled her from her saddle and onto his. He slid back, sitting behind her. He called to her mare to follow, and they took off at a dizzying pace. The rain and fear had her keeping her eyes tightly shut. Although the strength of his arms around her calmed her somewhat, she knew she wouldn’t relax until the storm passed.

Sooner than she would have expected, the horses slowed and Teodor

dismounted. She opened her eyes to see a simple stone house in front of her. “Where are we?”

He guided her inside as he explained. “This is an outpost cottage built

for strategy and safety. The kingdom is spread out, so hidden houses were raised throughout the land to shelter small groups of men when they are out on patrols. Only one man needs to stand guard while the others sleep. In addition, they can leave information on what they have learned at a house before moving on to the next one. Messengers are sent to pick up these missives and bring them back to the castle.”

“That sounds sensible,” she managed to say through chattering teeth as Teodor

wrapped a blanket around her.

“It is. I’m glad I remembered it was here because it was closer to come here

than return. We are further from the castle, but safe until the storm passes.”

“I’m grateful you thought of…” Her words were cut off by a crash of thunder so

loud she thought it would crush the top of the cottage. She squealed involuntarily and dropped to the floor. In two steps, he was next to her with his arms around her.

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“My sweet Mari,” he said, holding her close. “Let me tie up the horses, make us

a fire, and then you can tell me why storms scare you so much.” He sat her on a worn cotton rug in front of the fireplace where she remained shivering until he started a blaze that also heated a kettle of water. As soon as it was going, he joined her, pulled her into his embrace and kissed the top of her head. “Will you tell me now?”

Watching him take care of things helped her relax. She felt safe with him,

safe enough to explain to him what was wrong. “I’ve never liked storms,” she said. “Ever since I was a child, thunder scared me. Before my mother died, I can remember clinging to her through storms. After she was gone, my father would stay close to me. he night we received word of his death, there was a storm. He’d been out with a hunting party, and his horse was spooked by a lightening bolt and threw him. When he fell, his neck was broken. I’ve been alone during storms ever since.”

“Not anymore,” he said and held her closer. “And never again, my love.”



It had been over ten years since anyone had held her through the crashes and

rumbles of thunder. She turned to thank him, but the words were lost when she looked at him. In his eyes she saw acceptance and understanding. Teodor didn’t laugh or call her silly, as her stepsisters had. He simply listened to her. She could see his concern and feel the comfort he wanted to give her. It was the most generous gift anyone had ever offered. In that moment, all she wanted was to kiss him.

So she did.



His mouth was warm and yielding. If he was surprised by her actions, she

couldn’t tell. She turned to face him more completely, wrapped her arms around him then moved her hands down the wet material of the back of his shirt. His hard muscles shifted beneath her fingers. He was strong and solid and exactly what she needed.

I don’t want to care about him, she reminded herself automatically, but it was a

feeling she couldn’t hold onto. At his touch, her concerns melted away, and her focus became the pleasure he was building in her, the need to have him close to her. She never imagined a man’s caress could cause her to lose track of everything around her or

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that she could crave that sensation. Normally, she wasn’t comfortable giving up control, but as Teodor kissed her and held her, nothing else seemed to matter. Not even thunder. He eased her onto her back, then lay beside her so that they were facing one another. Kissing was wonderful, but she craved a deeper closeness. Slowly she unbuttoned his shirt and kissed the skin as she exposed it. As her hands traveled lower, he stopped her. “Are you certain this is what you want? I don’t want to pressure you.” “Am I acting as though I feel pressured?” “Not in the least.” “Then let me continue.” She opened his shirt and moved her hands over his chest, enjoying the soft hair that covered his hard muscles. She breathed in the warmth of his skin and the smell of soap, rain and something that was unique to him. His scent was becoming familiar to her. Exciting, too, because to enjoy it meant he was close enough to touch. “I want you undressed,” she said. “I want to be naked for you.”He needed no other encouragement and he sat up to comply with her request. Their damp clothes were challenging to remove and they laughed as they tried to untangle each other from sleeves, stays and undergarments without ripping anything. Laughing served to relax her more, and by the time they were bare, she was ready for him. Mariella could see from Teodor’s erection that he was excited as she. As he laid her gently on her back, she knew he was in no rush. He kissed her fully, his tongue slipping into her mouth. The passion he was able to pour into the embrace made her breathless, and she did her best to give as much as he did. He moved from her lips to her jaw and the sensitive spot behind her ear. She let a purring sound escape and was rewarded by feeling his lips smile against her skin. “You like that?” he asked. “Very much,” she said, shifting beneath him, making him gasp as his cock rubbed against her. Showing was so much better than telling, she decided. “I will have to remember how that spot excites you. As well as this one.” He slid

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his mouth down to kiss the hollow of her throat. She sighed. “And what about here?” He moved to her breast and drew in deeply on a nipple, making her draw in a sudden breath. “Yes, definitely there.” He continued his way down kissing, licking and sucking. He lingered where she responded most strongly, tasting and teasing her, as if learning her pleasure points. Allowing Teodor full access and not rushing him was a new experience and a thrilling one. When his mouth and fingers touched her pussy, she thought she might come immediately. Her entire body was aroused and aching. Still, he did not rush. It was maddening and wonderful. As he gently stroked her outer lips, she heard him sigh. “I love seeing you so excited for me,” he said softly. “It makes me want to see how long I can keep you like this.” “Not much longer, I think,” she said. His patience made her feel adored, while his words made her wetter. She never imagined her pleasure could give pleasure to another. It was an intoxicating thought. “I want to know every inch of you, every way to satisfy you,” he said, then nothing more as he relaxed his tongue and caressed her fully from the base of her entrance to the top, only barely touching her clit. She could only moan loudly in response. “Oh, good,” he said. “If you are out of words, I am doing this right.” His hands gently pushed her thighs wider, giving him complete access to her. Whether he pointed his tongue and touched her in specific sensitive areas or used both the flat of his tongue along with his fingers, everything he did built the desire in her until she couldn’t hold back any longer. “Teodor,” she cried breathlessly, “I’m…I need...” “I know,” he said against her skin. “Come for me, my love. I need your passion too.” There was no more waiting. She started to call his name again, but his tongue

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was on her clit and he drove a finger deep inside her. She could do nothing but scream in delight. As she gripped the rug at her sides, her back arched and her climax ripped through her with an intensity she never imagined possible. Before she came down completely, he was quickly kissing his way up her body and when his lips reached hers, his cock sank easily within her. Swollen from the pleasure he had given her, she felt herself stretch to accommodate him. She gripped him tightly as he filled her. She lifted her hips to meet his thrusts, taking him as deeply as she could. Wanting to see his expression as they made love, she opened her eyes to look at him and her breath caught in her throat. Never had anyone looked at her with such hunger and desire. In this moment, her whole world was just the two of them and the thought, rather than scaring her, made her want more of him. Made her want all of him. Not only his body, but his heart. She ran her hands over his chest, then changed directions going over his shoulders and down his back. When she reached his ass, she grabbed him and pushed him deeper inside of her. “Sweet Lord, that feels amazing,” he said, then kissed her fervently. He broke the embrace with a sudden gasp. “Mari, I’m going to come.” “Don’t hold back. Release yourself in me. Let me give you the pleasure you gave me.” “God, yes,” he said and he thrust forward hard, filling her completely, lifting her off the rug. He climaxed deep within her and her own excitement built again. Looking into his eyes, it was almost too much. The physical needs and the emotional ones crashed together and overwhelmed her as a second orgasm flooded her body. As she came, more than her body opened to him, making her climax more intense than any she had experienced with him before. This is love, she thought, and allowed the truth to find its way into her heart. For the first time, panic didn’t follow.

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“I’m yours,” she whispered, as he held her close. “And I’m yours,” he replied. She accepted the words, and then the silence that followed, and found it soothing. After their breathing returned to normal, he lifted her gently and carried her into the bedroom. The beds were narrow, meant for one, but lying on their sides, they were able to fit together. As she lay with her back curled again him, and he gently kissed her neck, she knew she could no longer deny her feelings. She was in love with Teodor. If it had been a mistake to stay, it would now be a bigger one to leave. Thoughts of being his wife didn’t scare her. In fact, the possibility thrilled her. She fell asleep in his arms, more relaxed and happier than she could ever remember being. She had no idea how much time had passed when a loud pounding rattled the door.

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Chapter Eleven



It was dark and cool in the room. The knocking was insistent. “Stay here,”

Teodor said, pulling the blanket over her and going into the other room for his shirt and pants. “I’m not in a position to go anywhere,” she countered. He wiggled his brows at her. “Good point, and nice position. I’ll be right back.” He knew it couldn’t be good news if someone had come to find them, but he couldn’t bring himself to be anxious. Not after the wonderful night he had spent with his wife. Near-wife. Would-be wife, he thought. He was not letting her go. He opened the door to find Vencor, Ramat, and three guards. He waved them in, and they filled the small room. After bowing, Vencor addressed him. “Your Majesty, the Duke of Pelham arrived at the castle this afternoon and has been waiting for you to send for him for the last several hours.” “Now he chooses to make an appearance? After months of absence and threats, why is he here?” The man’s timing was as terrible as this visit. Teodor was nearly certain Mariella would have accepted his hand had he offered for her again this night. “He claims he sent word that he was coming, and he is furious for not having been met, as well as not being included in the Duke’s council.” “Not included? How could he think that? All the Dukes were invited to be a part of the transition council. He was the one who chose not to come before. As to his arrival today, I had no knowledge of his intent. Did you, Vencor?” Teodor asked. This situation had quickly become a major concern and a mess of communication, which was not what he needed so close to his coronation. “I did not, sir. The first I heard of it was when Ramat told me he was already here and searching for you.” “You weren’t alerted as soon as he arrived?”

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Vencor looked to Ramat and then to Teodor. “No, sir.” “And how did you learn of it, Ramat?” Teodor asked. “Through the men he brought with him. They were with my men in the guard house.” Teodor said nothing. It wouldn’t do to get into an argument with the two men in front of Ramat’s soldiers, who were loyal to Ramat and unsure of their new king. “Is he still there?” “He was when I left, Your Majesty,” Vencor said, “but that was over six hours ago.” “We did not know where you were or where to look for you,” Ramat added. “It took longer than we expected.” Teodor noticed he left off addressing him by any title. He did not like the man’s tone and the edge in his voice. He would deal with that later. Pelham was his first concern. “What time is it?” “Just after ten, Your Majesty,” Vencor said. Teodor paced and thought for a minute. “Very well. Head back and give him my apologies. If he is awake when you return, tell I will be with him as soon as I can. Make certain he is well taken care of for the night. I am willing to meet with him this evening or, if he prefers, we can wait until morning..” Vencor and Ramat bowed. Vencor added, “As you wish.” Teodor ushered the men out and closed the door. Mariella came out of the bedroom wrapped in a blanket. He gave her a slow smile. “Now I don’t know about the other dresses you tried on today, but that one looks wonderful on you.” “I’ll let the seamstresses know your preference, my lord,” she said playfully. “Although I think they will be disappointed after all the work they have been doing.” Her expression changed. “Ramat and Vencor sounded serious.” “Vencor was understandably concerned, and Ramat always sounds serious. He always is serious, now that I think of it.”

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“I don’t like him.” “Why do you say that?” “I’m not certain. There’s something about him – the way he carries himself and the way he’s spoken to me – that makes me uncomfortable.” “It’s interesting you should say that. I’ve been apprehensive about him ever since my return to Galenet, and hearing he was the first to learn of Pelham’s arrival only adds to those concerns. If you are uneasy with him as well, perhaps I should…” “No, don’t worry,” she interrupted. “It’s probably nothing. Don’t let my opinion about someone who’s been helpful to you carry too much weight. It might simply be me being overwhelmed by all the new people I’ve been meeting. ” “Perhaps I should keep you all to myself. That would make life simpler.” He walked over to her and folded her into his arms. Holding her felt so right and immediately calmed the nerves that Vencor and Ramat’s visit had jangled. “It would, but I have a feeling it would make leading your kingdom challenging.” Teodor gave an exaggerated sigh. “I suppose so.” He kissed her softly and added, “I wish we had time to linger, and for me to take you back to bed, but I am needed at the castle.” “Then we will go.” She walked to the fireplace, where only embers now glowed, to find her gown. “Why is it I have so much trouble finding my clothes after we are together?” “As problems go, I rather like that one.” He joined her, and she handed his clothes to him. He wasn’t ready to leave. “These last hours have been wonderful, the best of my week. When we return, I want you to know that I am not going to let days pass without us being together.” She smiled and he felt as if it touched him physically. “I would enjoy that.” They left the house holding hands and rode side by side to the castle. Ida and Vencor met them as they stepped into the gallery together, and Teodor kissed her before

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going to his business chambers. His eyes followed her as she went to her rooms with Ida. There was no way he was letting her leave his life. He would show her that they belonged together. “I know it is ridiculously late, but send someone to the Duke of Pelham’s suite. If he is awake, I will meet him in my study now,” Teodor said to Vencor. “I’m sorry, but the Duke has gone, Your Majesty.” “I thought I gave you instructions that he should remain here.” “You did, sir, but he had left before we came back to give him the information.” “Damn, I had hoped to finally sort this problem out once and for all.” Teodor had arrived in his study and he now sat down heavily behind his desk. He motioned for Vencor to take a seat before him. “What do you recommend? Should I send word to call him back or should I travel to him?” “As much as it pains me to say so, sir, I think you should consider going to him at this point. Normally I would not recommend such an action, as it puts him in the position of power, but the situation has left you little choice. He claims you have ignored him ever since your arrival in Galenet.” “That isn’t true.” “Regardless, it is what he is saying to any and all who will listen, and there are those who are, unfortunately, listening. His claims gained weight among the other dukes when he told them you did not seek him out when you were last on his lands.” “When was that?” Teodor asked. He never meant this man any slight, yet he was powerless to stop all the occasions when he had done so unintentionally. “It seems that Lady Mariella’s family lives on the lands that once belonged to the Duke’s cousin, and which came to him upon the man’s death two years ago.” Teodor put his head in his hands. This situation was getting worse. “Vencor, I agree that it might make things easier if I rode out to him, but I must deal with this on my terms. We know he didn’t leave more than a few hours ago. Send four of our best knights, ones who came with us from Novaria, not Galenet, to find him along the road

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and escort him back here. “ “As you wish, Your Majesty. “ “He won’t appreciate being told what to do, but with this additional information, I am beginning to think I had best solve this where I have the advantage.” “Understood, sir.” “They are to come to you the moment they return, and you are to tell me. No one else is to know of this riding party. I especially want Ramat kept out of the loop on this one. I am not comfortable with him knowing things that you and I do not.” Vencor smiled slowly, which took Teodor by surprise. Smiling wasn’t something the older man did often.“What is making you smile?” “You, sir. I think you are making a wise decision and it pleases me to see the king emerge from the prince.” Teodor smiled too. **** Mariella was smiling as Ida helped her get ready for bed. All she had to do was think of being in Teodor’s arms, in bed with him, and she was happy. She had broken her promise to herself. Teodor had found a way into her heart, but at the moment she could not bring herself to be upset by it. She was about to have a drink of warmed wine with sweets, when there was a knock, and Finn burst through the door. “Master Finn, how many times must I tell you? Wait for someone to say, ‘Enter’ before you race into a room. What if Miss Mariella had been dressing?” Finn had the good sense to blush. “I’m sorry, Ida. I was worried. I know Lady Mariella doesn’t like storms. I couldn’t sleep, so I waited in the gallery. When I heard she was back, I had to come see that she was okay.” Ida looked at Mariella. “Is this true, about the storm?” “It is,” she answered and opened her arms to Finn, who rushed to her as she answered them both. “As you can see, I am fine. Teodor found shelter for us and took

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good care of me.” Very good care, she added to herself. Now it was her turn to blush. “I’m glad he was with you, Lady Mariella,” Finn said. “He’s really nice.” “Yes, he is,” she said. “And he’s going to be king. Can you believe it? A real king. That makes you a queen, which is so amazing. I think you’re going to be a great queen.” Finn stopped chattering when Mariella gave him a sweet cake, but added with his mouth full, “I can’t believe I am going to know a king.” A knock on the door had all three turning. “Enter,” called Mariella. Teodor entered and Mariella could see from his expression that whatever had transpired with the Duke of Pelham was not good. Her immediate thought was to dismiss Ida and send Finn to bed, but before she could say anything, Finn had bounded off her lap and run to Teodor. “We were just talking about you,” Finn said, as Teodor scooped him up. “You were? I hope you were saying good things.” “Oh, yes. Lady Mariella was telling us that you had helped her through the storm and I was saying how great it was that you are going to be king.” “Yes, it is great,” Teodor said warmly, but Mariella could see that the smile he gave Finn was not reaching his eyes. It was kind of him, she thought, to sit and listen to Finn talk to him when she could see that he was ready to fall asleep sitting up. Something was weighing on him, but he was willing to put the needs of others first. That would serve him well as king. And as her husband? She knew the answer to that question now, even if she wasn’t ready to admit it to herself. “Finn, it is getting quite late,” Mariella interrupted what sounded like an unending description of the stables, “and I am certain you have a busy day tomorrow. Time to say goodnight and head to your room.” “Okay, okay,” he said as if someone had taken his favorite toy from him. He gave Teodor a hug, which was returned, then bounded over to Mariella for a hug and a kiss.

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“I will take Master Finn to his room and bid you both goodnight.” “Good night,” Mariella and Teodor said in unison. “You look ready to collapse,” Mariella said when they were alone. “Things didn’t go well with the Duke?” “He was gone by the time we returned,” Teodor said, and told her the story. “That’s a lot of missed communications. Is that typical of your experience here?” “No, which is why I want only Vencor to manage this from here on out. I can’t tell if the Duke is trying to create trouble or if someone else is stirring him up. Did you know he’s the owner of the land your family’s home is on?” Mariella thought about it, trying to remember if she had ever heard him mentioned, or if he had ever visited. “He doesn’t sound familiar, but then again, I wasn’t invited to a lot of dinners.” Teodor took her hand. “Sorry to bring them up.” “It’s not a problem. That life feels very far away when I’m with you.” “I’m glad,” he said, as a yawn overtook him. “Now, that is a cue I recognize. Time for bed, my dear.” “All right, but I don’t know if I’m fully recuperated from earlier this evening.” He winked. “Then I’ll rephrase that. It’s time to sleep. Will you join me?” “Absolutely.” He stripped out of his pants as she pulled down the blankets and got in to bed. He slid in beside her and drew her close. “What a day,” he said. “And tomorrow promises to be busier. I don’t know when I’ll have a chance to see you” “Then you will come to me when you can.” She kissed him softly, laying her head on his chest and letting the sound of his heartbeat lull her to sleep. **** For the next few days, Teodor and Mariella went to bed and woke together, although each night he was so exhausted that after talking about his day, he was ready

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for sleep. Of course, as was happening more and more, he was having trouble sleeping through the night. One night, after making certain Mariella was soundly asleep, he slipped out of bed and down to the kitchen. It was something he hadn’t done since he was a boy, but tonight he wanted the comfort of something familiar, and he was drawn to the idea of a glass of cider and a cheese sandwich. When he got to the kitchen, he was surprised to find he wasn’t alone. “Finn? Is that you?” “Prince Teodor? What are you doing up? Shouldn’t you be with Lady Mariella? Is she all right?” Teodor smiled. Even in the middle of the night, the boy was lively and animated.“Mariella is fine. I was having trouble sleeping so I came down for something to eat so I wouldn’t wake her. What are you doing here?” “I usually wake up once a night and I’m always hungry when I do. Cook says I use up too much energy all the time and my body needs more fuel. She always leaves out a few meat pies for me so that I don’t have to rummage through things and mess up her kitchen. Want one?” “Thank you, I would.” He bit into the dough to find it warm. Cook must have taken them out of the oven only minutes before she retired, so they would still be warm for Finn. It told him she planned for his midnight eating. He made a mental note to reward her for her kindness. “Why couldn’t you sleep? Did you not eat enough for dinner?” “No, I woke up because leading the kingdom has me worried,” he told the boy honestly. “Why do you worry? I think you are doing a great job.” The boy’s tone was so confident. “What makes you say that?” Teodor asked. “People are happy. Cook and the kitchen staff are always talking about what new things they want to create, Ida hums to herself as she works, and the men in the

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stables let me help and even teach me things. There is almost no yelling. And Lady Mariella is happy, which is the most important. If you weren’t doing a good job, people would be yelling and sad.” It made such perfect sense when he said it. “Does that mean you are happy here as well?” “I sure am. I have lots of stuff to do and I have a real bed to sleep in at night. I get to see Mariella every day, talk with you, and I am never hungry. If you were a bad king, you’d ignore me or push me around like the other grown-ups I’ve known. Not including Mariella, of course. She’s the best.” “Yes, she is.” “That’s another thing. I like the way you treat her. She smiles more now that we are here, and you took care of her during the thunderstorm. I know that means a lot.” “She means a lot to me.” “Good,” Finn said seriously, as he finished up his pie. Standing, he said, “You know, Prince Teodor, I really do think you are a good king. But to me and Mariella, you’re more than that. You’re a good friend. Good night.” He was gone before Teodor could reply. He sat there as his food got cold and thought about Finn’s words. For most of his life, the people he spent time with were more concerned about what he did rather than who he was. They cared if he did a good job, not if he was a good person. Now a child had shown him a new part of himself, a part he hardly recognized, but quickly discovered he liked a lot. **** Mariella never thought it was possible, but she no longer feared losing her heart. It was lost to Teodor and there was nothing to be done for it. She occasionally had small pangs of panic when she thought of something happening to him, but overall the feeling of love was worth those moments of fear. It was a beautiful day and Mariella knew she was meeting with different women later to help her finalize her selections for ladies in waiting, but for now she simply

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wanted to walk through the castle and its gardens. She took time to talk to the servants as she passed, learning their names and their responsibilities. On her way to the garden, she walked by a group of three dukes waiting to meet with the Teodor. “Good day, your ladyship,” they said as they bowed. She curtsied, and replied, “Good day.” As she walked away, she thought she heard someone whisper, “Slut.” She turned back, but the men we talking amongst themselves, and she could not be certain of what they might have said. Uneasy, she continued outside and stood on the terrace, calming her thoughts. “I know about you,” someone said behind her. She turned and met the eyes of an overdressed duke she did not recognize. “Excuse me, Your Grace?” “I said, I know about you. I know your past and your overly willing ways. I am the Duke of Pelham, and my cousin, Count Bristol, visited the home of your family on several occasions before his death.” Mariella blanched. Bristol was a name she recognized. Unfortunately. Her stepmother had sold him her virginity shortly after her seventeenth birthday, and he had returned several times a year after. He had died six months ago, and she did not mourn his passing. Pelham took a step toward her. Mariella stepped back, and into the terrace rail. He moved closer and she could smell his breath and the cologne he overindulged in. Her stomach rolled. “His description of you didn’t do you justice, my pretty. Perhaps you and I could continue in the same kind of relationship you has with him. I think I would enjoy that a great deal.” “It was hardly a relationship, Your Grace,” Mariella managed. “And my situation is quite different now.” “Yes, you’ve managed to seduce royalty this time.” She ignored the dig. “You are speaking of my past. I have no intention in taking up with you or anyone else.”

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“Not even to keep this information from your future husband? Are you even going to marry him when the time comes or will you leave him for greener pastures, whatever those might be?” Mariella couldn’t contain a small gasp. “Oh yes, my pet, I know about that as well. Perhaps I should let the other dukes know our future king cannot even control a common woman. How could he be trusted to lead a kingdom?” Mariella swallowed. She had no idea anyone knew about her arrangement with Teodor. Could their bargain cost him the crown? She couldn’t let that happen. “Think about it,” Pelham said, and stroked a finger down her face before leaving her. As he walked away, it was all she could do not to wipe her cheek. She couldn’t control the shudder that passed through her. She hated it, but she did as Pelham said. For the rest of the day, she went through the motions of responsibilities mechanically as she thought about what he told her and worried about what she should do. The one choice she wouldn’t make was having anything to do with the Duke. Teodor was a wonderful man and was going to be a great king. She wouldn’t do anything to jeopardize that for him. Maybe telling him that she knew she wanted to be with him would help. Once she did that, she could let him know about the situation with Pelham. Would he think she agreed to marriage so he couldn’t get rid of her once he learned more of her past? Her head was spinning with all the different what-ifs. She had to trust him or nothing they shared would have a solid foundation. She decided she would give Teodor all the information she had when he came to her that night. Not only would she explain what happened in her stepmother’s home, she would also tell him she had come to love him and wanted to marry him and build a life together. She could only hope he would be able to hear it and accept it all. When Teodor came into their bedchamber and closed the door with a slam, she changed her plans. Clearly this was not the night to bring difficult news to him. He poured himself a drink, finished it, then poured another. She had never seen him do that before. He took the second drink, walked to a chair in front of the fireplace and sat

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down so hard it moved back several inches. She went over and sat next to him. “Bad day, my love?” She tried for lightness but she could see in his eyes it wasn’t going to help. Taking his hand in hers, she said, “Talk to me.” She watched him rake his other hand through his hair, and pound his fist on the armrest before he answered. “It’s the Duke of Pelham and the few dukes siding with him. Ever since he arrived, it has been a challenge to get anything accomplished. No matter what I recommend, he rejects it. I could say we need more rain and he would insist a drought would be better. It wasn’t intentional that his invitation to the council was overlooked or lost, but now that he’s here, I wish he had stayed away. Damn, it is all so frustrating after everything was moving along so well.” Mariella fervently hoped that her connection to the Duke wasn’t part of the reason for the problems Teodor was having. “And to top it all off, I yelled at Finn.” She was stunned. “You did?” It was very out of character for him, which worried her. “It was stupid. I was walking through the main hall trying to organize my thoughts. Finn came barreling in as he often does and almost knocked me over. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time, and I lost my temper.” If he was yelling at Finn, things were very wrong. “Then you will find a way to make it right. He cares about you and you about him.” “I know. And I will talk to him as soon as I can.” “I wish there was something I could do to make you feel better, more relaxed,” she said. And then she thought of it. He was feeling lost and out of control. It was an emotion she knew well, and thanks to her time with Teodor, she knew there was something she could offer to change that, at least temporarily. Leaving him staring at the fire, she went to her bedside table and took out something she had kept there since their first night together. A moment of

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concern passed through her as she wondered if she could follow through on her idea. Then her trust and love for Teodor flowed through her and she knew beyond a doubt she was willing to suggest this to him. Quietly and quickly, she stripped out of her clothes and went back to him. Completely bare, she stood in front of him and handed him two long pieces of red ribbon. “Perhaps there is something I can do to help you.” **** The woman of his dreams was standing naked in front of him, offering herself like the most succulent dessert. Suddenly Teodor was ravenous. He scooped her up into his arms and walked her to the bed, placing her gently in the middle. She looked stunning. He didn’t know where to begin, so he started with a kiss. She reached toward him with her mouth and arched her body up, making no move to use her hands. He knew what she was telling him by her movements and her gift. Accepting what she offered him, he took the ribbons from her and carefully bound first one, and then the other wrist to the ornate headboard. Spread before him, the woman he loved was his for the taking. He was harder than he could ever remember being. He had wanted her in the past, but this moment was different. Now the control was his. The pleasure was his to give or withhold, and he planned to make the most of it. Part of him wanted to dive into her without any preliminaries, fill her completely with his cock, and lose himself in the mindlessness of sex, but he decided that a slower approach to make her beg for him would be more satisfying for them both. He gazed at her body and began to lazily stroke his hands over her skin. He wasn’t intending to excite, but it was a pleasurable thing to do while he thought about what he might like next. As he watched her nipples harden and listened to the soft sighs she made in response, he was soon ready for more. Moving the pillows from the top of bed, he kneeled by her head and pushed his hips forward. “Take me,” he said. She opened her mouth and he moaned at the feel of first her tongue and then her lips on the tip of his shaft. He slid more of himself into her

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and she responded by sucking him harder and more deeply. Her tongue circled the head as she drew him into her. The pleasure was exquisite and made more so by knowing she would continue for as long as he wanted. He reached for her breasts, pinching and teasing the nipples. The more he touched her, the more voracious her mouth became. Suddenly her throat relaxed and she took his full length. So much, he thought, for being the one in control. **** All Mariella’s nervousness about being in this position disappeared when Teodor looked at her with passionate need. It was thrilling to give to him in this way, and while she may not have control, she still felt completely powerful. As much as she enjoyed having him bound before her, there was something freeing about being with a man she trusted this much and allowing him to freely indulge his pleasure in her. She knew no woman had ever done this for him before, and she knew she had never enjoyed seducing a man as she did him. This new awareness only made her more excited and willing to please him. She may be the one bound, but she could sense that they were both surrendering to their need for each other. “Lord, the heat of your mouth,” he gasped. “Your tongue.” She looked up at him and when he met her eyes, he groaned and grasped her nipples harder. The contrast of the slight pain mixed with pleasure only served to heighten her awareness of her desire and a flood of need, making her wet. As if sensing how her body reacted, Teodor reached for her pussy and began fingering her roughly. There was no need for gentleness. She ached for him, wanted him, and could only tell him with her moans and small movements that she was as excited as he was. She would receive no release until he wanted her to. Knowing she couldn’t hurry or encourage him excited her more. She focused on the only thing she could, his cock, and poured all her longing into

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the movements of her mouth. Her reward was a shifting in the speed of his thrusts and his whispered encouragements. As he neared his climax, he pulled back from her. “No more. I will come this way, and I want to come in your pussy, not your mouth.” With no other preliminaries, he repositioned himself between her legs, forcing them up and back, exposing her completely. She felt the cool air on her skin for a heartbeat and then he sheathed himself completely within her. They moaned in unison as their bodies were joined. He was deep inside of her and she swiveled her hips to accommodate him. “You feel so good, so right,” he said as he pulled out almost completely before slamming back into her. “You…do…too…” she answered, her heart beating too fast for her to speak clearly. Nothing had ever felt as wonderful as being close to him. Then he fingered her clit and she discovered she was wrong. “Oh my God,” she cried and bit her lip to keep from screaming. “You’re so wet, so willing. I love the feel of you.” His finger moved faster as he pumped inside of her. The combination was more than she could bear and with almost no build up, her climax was upon her and nothing could stop her from crying out his name “That’s it,” he said. “Come for me. Cover me with your passion.” She arched off the bed and wrapped her legs around him, pulling him in as deeply as she could, grateful they weren’t tied to the bed as well. As her orgasm started to wane, and he moved more slowly within her, he said, “There’s something else I want.” “Whatever you desire is yours.” She felt his cock jump inside her at her response. “I want you on her knees.” Now it was her turn to shudder at the choice of words. “As you wish,” she said.

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His cock stayed inside her as he leaned forward to untie her wrists. When she was free, he slid out for a moment, turned her over and thrust powerfully back into her. She though he was deep before, but that was nothing compared to how filled she felt now.

As desire coursed through her, Mariella was grateful to have her hands free to

clutch at the sheets and push herself back onto him, letting him take her as hard as he wanted. She was lost to the pleasure they created and reveled in the roughness of his need.

He grabbed her hips as he found the rhythm that suited him and she matched her

movements to his. She considered pulling away to tease him, but then remembered that tonight he was to be in control. Tucking the thought away for another night, she returned her focus to the excitement he was building for them both.

“I can’t wait any longer. I can’t hold back,” he groaned as began to move faster.



“Then don’t. Let me give you the pleasure you deserve.”



Whether it was the wait or her words that put him over the edge Mariella didn’t

know, but it didn’t matter as he pulled her close and came deeply within her. His roar or release excited her as well and another rush of passion washed over her.

His weight against her back pushed her into the bed and she discovered she enjoyed

being covered by his warmth. They lay that way for a little while as their breathing returned to normal. “I’m not certain if my legs work,” Teodor said, as he rolled to the side and pulled her against him. “I know the feeling,” she said, kissing his chest. As he brushed her hair out of her face, he said softly, “That was amazing.You are amazing.” He put his hands on her cheeks and brought her close for a kiss. “I love you, Mariella.” She pushed herself up and rested her hands on his chest. She didn’t want to respond immediately, so he would know what she felt was real and not being said simply to repeat his words. “I love you, Teodor,” she said, and kissed him passionately.

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As he massaged her arms, Mariella thought about all they had shared. Not the sex, wonderful as that was, but the emotions. She loved him and was loved in returned. There was no way or need to pretend otherwise, and this feeling was so magical, so wonderful that now she understood why people risked loss. For the first time she was glad to know this was something her parents had shared and that she was born of that love. She wondered if a baby could be on the way for her. In a little over a week, they would be married. He would become king and they would have their lives to enjoy each other and the family they would raise together. “That was an unexpected and wonderful shift,” he said kissing her neck. “I’m glad you enjoyed it.” “Oh, I more than enjoyed it,” he put several pillows behind his head so he could lay back but still see her. “Not that I’m complaining, but what made you decide to do that?” “You did.” He gave her a puzzled look. “For the last few days, you’ve been coming to me frazzled, tired and feeling out of control. When you told me about the Duke and yelling at Finn, I knew you needed something to help you get that back. Part of the reason I loved being in the dominant role with you those other times was because I needed to be in control. I thought you would enjoy the experience tonight since things everywhere else were unmanageable.” “My sweet insightful love, I am so lucky to have you in my life.” She smiled. “Don’t you forget it.” “I don’t intend to.” “There’s one more thing I need to know.” He sat up and took her hand in his. His expression was serious, his eyes filled with love. “Will you marry me?” She put her arms around him, and smiled. “Yes,” she said, and kissed him with all the love she had for him.

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Chapter Twelve



They fell asleep wrapped in each other’s arms and Mariella was surprised to

awaken the same way. It was rare for Teodor to be with her in the morning. She put her head on his chest and curled against the warmth of him, deciding she wanted to have this more often. “Good morning,” said a sleepy voice. Pulling back, she looked up into his dark blue eyes. “Good morning to you.” “I hope you don’t mind, but when Ida came to wake you, I sent her away.” “It’s hard to mind anything when I’m naked in bed with you.” “I’ll have to remember that,” he said, and pulled her to him for a kiss. After a moment she rolled herself so that she covered him, then shifted slightly so that the entrance to her pussy teased the tip of his already erect cock. “You are insatiable. I like that in a wife.” “You are hard and ready for me. I like that in a husband.” She eased her body down to sheath him within her and was rewarded by his moan of delight. “And I like you in me.” “Lucky for me, because I certainly enjoy being there.” He lifted his hips to slide into her more fully, stroking them both and increasing their pleasure. “You are so tight.” “Must be from last night’s activity.” “Whatever caused it, you feel wonderful.” Not having an answer to that, she kissed him and continued to do so. She rode him rhythmically, raking her nails down his chest until her orgasm slipped over her like a wave and he came within her moments later. “I suppose we have to get up soon,” she said, as she allowed herself to fall against him. “Yes, I’m afraid so. Not only will people wonder where we are, but we both have

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a lot to do today, especially with the arrival of the Duchesses for the dinner and party this evening.” She nodded. “Some joined their husbands last night. The rest are due before lunch. It’s chaos. Mostly organized, but chaos nonetheless. Ida, of course, is in heaven. She has things running in army precision. I don’t know what I’d do without her.” “I doubt I’ll see much of you today with our schedules, but I would ask that you do one thing for me this evening.” “What is that?” “Would you wear the glass slippers tonight? I want to know that under your gown is a surprise only I know of.” Giving him a kiss, she answered, “I would love to do that for you. Perhaps I will also wear a familiar ribbon in my hair.” He groaned. “Don’t get me started or we will never leave this bed.” “I don’t suppose that will work with today’s plans, but it is definitely something to look forward to.” “Absolutely.” He rang for servants and within the hour they were both dressed, finished with breakfast and deep in to their day’s requirements. The castle was a flurry of activity. Mariella was kept busy with the different needs of the Duchesses. Greeting them, helping them to settle in, and making certain their servants were blended in to the workings of the castle was initially overwhelming, but as the day progressed, she felt her confidence grow. During the occasional moments of panic, when she wanted to run and disappear, all she had to do was think of Teodor. Whenever she pictured him, a smile came to her face, and she was able to do whatever needed to be done. Ida was nearby for most of the day and, fortunately, the majority of the women were kind. Those who were difficult, she managed as she had her step-family. This time, at least, she knew she only had to live with them for a few days and then they’d be

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gone. She found, happily, that she was looking forward to the night’s event. This was the first time she would be presented to the dukes and Teodor could officially announce their marriage plans for the day of his coronation. After panicking at the thought only a few weeks before, it was hard to believe how much she wanted to be his wife. Late in the afternoon she returned to her room to prepare for the upcoming festivities. She dressed in a new gown of burgundy satin, and wore her mother’s earrings and the glass slippers. She hadn’t put them on since the day Teodor came and took her away. As they warmed to her feet, she smiled at all that had changed in that time. A knock at her door had her looking up. “Come in.” Unexpectedly, Georgiana walked into the room. “What are you doing here?” Mariella asked. “I have been hired to attend to the family of His Grace, the Duke of Pelham, and I come to you with his request to meet with you before the dinner.” Mariella’s stomach clenched. It was bad enough learning Georgina was now associated with the Duke. She had no desire to see anyone connected to Count Bristol, but she didn’t want to insult one of the nobles, especially one who was causing Teodor so many problems. “Did he say what this was in regards to?” “No, my lady, he did not and I did not ask. I know my place.” Mariella thought that was unlikely, but said nothing. “He simply said it was urgent I fetch you and bring you to him immediately.” Georgina’s request seemed genuine and she didn’t want to be the cause of the any trouble so close to this important event. “Very well.” Mariella was about to follow Georgina when she was stopped by a small body running into her at full force. “Lady Mariella,” said Finn, giving her as tight a hug as he could, given the volume of her dress. “Hello, my sweet. Where are you going?” “To see you. You look wonderful. Look, Ida got me some new clothes for tonight.”

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He did a quick spin to show her. “How do I look?” “Very handsome and quite grown up.” She couldn’t hold back a smile. Finn beamed. “I get to be in the dining room and sit with some of the squires. The Master of the Stables said it is an important night for Prince Teodor and since I am friends with you, I can go. Isn’t that great? Are you going to dinner now? I thought I was early. I want to spend some time with you before you got busy.” “It is early. I have been asked to meet with one of the visiting dukes and I’m on my way to see him. Why don’t you come with me?” He agreed happily and they continued to follow the servant to the Duke’s suite. Pelham was waiting for them in the sitting area. “Good evening, my lady.” Mariella dipped a curtsy. “Good evening, Your Grace. Your servant said you wished to see me.” “I do. I wish to see a great deal of you,” he said, closing the distance between them in three strides, making his intentions clear. “What does he mean?” said Finn, looking between the two adults, and moving to stand in front of Mariella, as if he could protect her. “Lady Mariella, what’s wrong?” The Duke noticed Finn for the first time. “Get that brat out of here,” growled Pelham to Georgina. “Leave me alone,” Finn yelled, and started kicking, as she picked him up and carried him out. “Put me down.” Mariella moved to help him, and called, “Let him go,” but Pelham grabbed her upper arm roughly and stopped her. “Don’t come back unless you are sent for. And make certain he keeps his mouth shut,” he ordered. “With pleasure, Your Grace,” Georgina said with a cold smile. “Please, don’t hurt him,” Mariella said, and tried to reach Finn before he was pulled from the room. “Matters to you, does he?” He pulled her against his body, and she could smell

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alcohol on his breath. “Well, if you want him to stay healthy, I think you should consider cooperating with me.” Mariella looked at Pelham and knew this was no game. He held the power and had the control. She was trapped. **** “Yes, what is it?” Teodor called, as his door was knocked on yet again. A man couldn’t get dressed for dinner in peace in this place. He was going to have to make a rule about giving him at least a half-hour before any function without being asked questions unless something was on fire or war had broken out. Ramat entered the room, bowed and said, “Your Majesty, I have something I must tell you.” “It had better be important.” “It is, sir,” he said then glanced at the valet who was assisting Teodor. “I think you will want to hear this alone. It concerns some indiscretions by your future queen.” Teodor frowned and waved the man out of the room. When they were alone he said, “Go on.” “Sir, I know this will be difficult to hear, but Lady Mariella has gone to be with the Duke of Pelham.” “Be with?” “Yes, sir. She was seen entering his room about fifteen minutes ago without an escort. I have recently learned she had an intimate relationship with Pelham’s cousin, Count Bristol, and it looks as though she has chosen to continue that with him.” Teodor saw red. He never believed it was possible, but it was if the blood now pumping furiously in his veins had misted over his eyes. He couldn’t, wouldn’t, believe what Ramat was suggesting about Mariella. No matter what happened in her past, he knew her well enough to know she wouldn’t go willingly to another man. He thought back to their discussions of prior partners. She had accepted his time with Georgina and not held it against him, and he had felt the same way about what her

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family put her through. It had taken him weeks to earn her trust and love, and he wasn’t going to start doubting her now simply on the word of a man he did have doubts about. If she was with Pelham, there had to be another reason, and it was likely she was in danger, not causing trouble. And if he discovered that what Ramat said was true? He wouldn’t believe until he saw it for himself. Regardless of the truth, something was very wrong and Pelham was a part of it. Teodor grabbed his sword as he started walking. “Where is that bastard? I’ll kill him.” **** You are so predictable, my foolish liege, Ramat thought as he walked quickly to keep up with the enraged prince. By now, Pelham should have the wench in a suitably compromising position which would send Teodor into a fighting rage. Ramat would have Mariella removed and imprisoned for acts against the crown. He still toyed with the idea of keeping for his own. Likely she would do anything to save herself. Teodor might kill Pelham, but Ramat would make certain he would be seen for the weak leader he was. When the dust settled and the nobles frantically deliberated over what to do next, Ramat would step in and finally take his rightful place. Of course, there was a chance that Pelham would kill the prince. The Duke was older, but not untried in battle and Teodor’s anger could affect his skill. Teodor dead was even better than having him disgraced. If that was the outcome, in order to save his title and power, Ramat would force Pelham to support his claim for king. No matter which way the fight went, Ramat thought with a smile, he would win. **** In the couture finery of court and wearing the glass shoes, Mariella didn’t have much ability to fight off the Duke. She kicked and tried to scratch, but he quickly threw her over his shoulder and brought her to the couch. Once there, she continued to struggle against his advances. “Teodor will have you imprisoned for this.” “Are you planning to tell him, my pet?”

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Hearing an endearment from his lips made her stomach curdle. “That you raped me? Of course I will.” “And I will simply tell him you seduced me. You’ve known the attention of many partners. I will claim you offered yourself and that I couldn’t refuse your…charms.” His eyes fell to her breasts and he grabbed her through the material. “I could soften the blow to his ego by saying you came to me in hopes that I would stop causing him trouble and seduced me as part of your plan. Regardless, he will see you for the whore you are and toss you aside for someone more suitable. So stop fighting me and perhaps I will bring you back to my manor as my mistress.” “I would sooner die then serve you,” she said, continuing to struggle. “I don’t think that will be necessary. You are a clever woman. You must be to have enthralled a prince. I am certain you will see things my way.” He leaned in to kiss her when, with a thunderous bang, the door flew open and all Mariella saw was Teodor, sword in hand. **** Teodor didn’t bother knocking. He kicked the door open and walked into the Duke’s suite. Mariella was on the couch. On her back. With Pelham on top of her trying to open her bodice while she struggled under his considerable weight. “Get off of her, you filthy coward, and explain yourself,” he said, drawing his weapon. “Ramat, what are you two doing here?” the Duke asked. “He discovered where she was, and I couldn’t stop him, Your Grace,” Ramat said. “No matter.” The Duke didn’t bother to try to fix his clothes, as he stood up and reached for his sword, which he had left on a table next to the couch. “I don’t need to explain my actions to a would-be king about my attentions to his whore of a fiancé.” “Don’t call her that,” yelled a small voice. Teodor looked to the door to see Finn enter and run to stand beside him. “What

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are you doing here, young man?” he asked without taking his eyes off the Duke. “I was with Mariella when she came here and he” – here Finn pointed at Pelham – “had me thrown out. But I got away.” “Excellent job, Finn. Go sit by Mariella, now, and keep her safe.” Teodor knew instinctively that Finn would continue to try to fight unless he gave the boy something else to do. Protecting Mariella would give him a purpose. He saw Mariella hug Finn close before he turned back to the Duke. “I would know your reasons for taking liberties with my bride before I decide to either kill you or have you imprisoned.” “You will do neither. I know all about your dear Mariella. My cousin enjoyed her regularly when she was nothing more than a servant. How much support do you think you will get from the other Dukes, or your father for that matter, if they knew the kind of woman you chose to be around their wives and be the mother of the heir?” “I do not hold a person’s past against them, especially when situations not of their choosing were forced upon them. The woman Mariella is has nothing to do with what she was required to do before I met her. You, however, are choosing actions which could be considered treasonous and cost you your title. Is that what you wish for your family?” “My family has been loyal to the crown of Galenet for generations. I do not see a reason to be loyal to a would-be king, especially one who does not even have the strength to get the woman he wants to agree to marriage.” Teodor heard Mariella gasp. “Yes, I know all about your little arrangement. You defend her, yet she isn’t even certain she wants to be your wife.” “You would instead have a future king who forces his needs on another regardless of their desires or concerns?” Teodor fired back. “If that were the ruler I wished to be, then I could command you to kneel before me now or consider your lands and life forfeit, and coronation or no, I have the power and ability to carry that out.” He must have finally said something that got through to the Duke because the man stopped lunging and took a step back. For the first time since entering the Duke’s room, Teodor thought this might end without bloodshed.

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Until Ramat reached onto the couch and picked up a piece of material that looked familiar. “Your Majesty, we may be too late. I think His Grace may have passed the point of decency with your intended. Are these not ladies’ undergarments?” Teodor walked over to Ramat and looked at what he held. Those were definitely Mariella’s. He recognized them, but something about seeing them was wrong, and not simply the fact that they had been found in another man’s suite where he had seen her being pawed. **** Mariella watched in embarrassed horror as Ramat held her underwear for both men to see. It wasn’t possible. The Duke hadn’t gotten under her skirts. There was nothing for Ramat to find. Then she recognized them. They were the pair she was wearing on the night of the last ball, the ones she left in the grotto. She had to tell Teodor. He had to believe her, but before she could say anything, she heard Finn whisper, “Hey, I saw that,” and he pulled away from her. “Finn, come back here,” she called as the boy ran straight for Ramat. “You’re a liar,” he said, banging into the man and nearly knocking him over. “I saw you. You dropped those here just now. They were in your pocket, not in the room. You’re trying to hurt Lady Mariella and Prince Teodor.” “Wretched brat,” Ramat hissed. “I will deal with you later.” Effortlessly, he picked up the boy and tossed him furiously across the room, where he hit a wall, and landed in a heap. Mariella screamed and ran to Finn, her heart in her throat. When she saw the rise and fall of his chest, she sent up a prayer of thanks. She glared at the Duke and Teodor. “How could either of you listen to a man who would hurt an innocent child?” she yelled at them. “Don’t you see what he is doing? The trouble he is purposely causing?” Her words made both men pause and look at Ramat. “You are fools, weak and useless,” Ramat said. “And I am finished with you both.”

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**** Teodor looked at Mariella’s stricken face and let her words sink in. Finn said Ramat brought the underwear with him. Which would mean he had them earlier? And that’s when he realized why they looked familiar. Pelham hadn’t taken them off Mariella. He had, the first time he had undressed her. It didn’t matter how Ramat had gotten them, only that he could clearly see how the man was trying to set him up. He put down his sword. “This is done. Ramat, you have a lot to answer for and will be imprisoned until I get some answers. I don’t know what kind of game you are playing, but it is over.” “Game? This is no game. You have no right to the throne and I am going to see to it you never claim it.” “You know that is not true. My family is directly related to the last king.” “But not as closely as I am,” Ramat said. “He was my father.” “That’s not possible. The king and queen had no children,” Teodor said. “True. But the king and his mistress did.” There was silence. The Duke found his voice first. “The nobles will not put a bastard on the throne.” “They will when this one here is dead,” he gestured toward Teodor. “When they have nowhere else to look and they learn of my commitment to Galenet, I will be the only choice. A bastard is better than a stranger. My father may not have been able to acknowledge me, but he always kept me close, training me for this day, whether he knew it or not. I have royal blood in my veins and this kingdom will be mine. ” “That is not going to happen,” Teodor said. “No one will give your claim weight.” “Oh, they will. I’ve been placing doubts in the minds of several nobles for the last few months. Making sure Pelham’s invitation to the Dukes Council got lost was only part of my plan.” Teodor looked over at the Duke and could see from his expression this was news

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to him. One mystery solved, he thought, but he still had to find a way to get out of this situation safely. As he had been taught by his father and Vencor, he started with logic. “You can’t succeed, Ramat. End this now and you may get away with your life.” “It is your life that is in danger. Not mine.” “You’re forgetting,” Teodor said, “you have a room full of witnesses who will divulge your plan and see it stopped.” “Hardly,” Ramat said. “I have a whore, a child, a pretender and a dead Duke.” As he finished his sentence, he lunged for Pelham and thrust his sword into the man’s stomach and up toward his heart. Mariella screamed. As Ramat swiftly pulled the weapon out of the body, the Duke fell to the floor, blood pooling around him. Teodor raced to Pelham and tried to help, but it was clear the man was dying. Between one breath and the next, he was gone. “One down,” Ramat said with a satisfied smile. **** Mariella stared at Ramat in horror. That he injured Finn so callously alarmed her. That he would kill just as easily scared her to the core. She thought she couldn’t be more frightened, but found she was wrong when Teodor picked up his sword and prepared to fight. The two men circled each other before beginning. Once they did, Mariella jumped with every clash of their swords. As the men parried and lunged at each other, Mariella watched her worst fear come to life. Should something happen to Teodor, she knew she would die of a broken heart. The only thing that took her gaze from them was feeling Finn stir against her. “What happened?” he asked, trying to sit up. “Lie down, my little love,” she said pushing his head back into her lap. “You’re going to be fine. You were so brave, but for now I need you to stay with me and be quiet.” “Did Teodor get rid of that awful man?” “N-not yet,” Mariella said, stroking Finn’s hair, as much to give herself something

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to do as to calm him. The two men were evenly matched and neither showed any sign of backing down or tiring. Not being able to help was as hard witnessing Teodor fight for his life. Mariella had no doubt that Ramat intended to kill him. Please let him win. Please let him survive. I love him. She prayed and pleaded as she watched. It was clear from his roaring that Ramat was becoming frustrated at not being able to best his opponent more quickly. In a move designed to injure rather than kill, he slashed his sword at Teodor, slicing open his shirt and drawing blood. The growing red stain made Mariella ill. Seeing Teodor stagger sank her heart. They continued to fight, the noise of steel hitting steel filling the room. When Teodor stepped back to position himself better, he tripped unexpectedly over a footstool, giving Ramat an unexpected advantage. As Teodor struggled to regain his footing, Ramat pushed forward and raised his sword for a killing blow. Mariella wished for a weapon and suddenly thought of something she could use. Without giving it a second thought, she took off one of her glass slippers. With Teodor on the floor, there was a safe distance between the two men, and she had a moment to be grateful Ramat was closer to her. Taking a second to aim, she threw the shoe with all of her strength at Ramat. Her aim was true. The shoe hit Ramat solidly in the head, shattering as it did. He screamed viciously as a fragment of glass stabbed his eye. Teodor took the opportunity to stand up quickly, slash at Ramat’s sword hand, and disarm him. As his opponent continued to yell, he used the grip of his own weapon to knock Ramat unconscious. The sudden silence was chilling. Teodor stood over the body to be certain Ramat didn’t stir, and then raced over to where Mariella cradled Finn. “Are you all right?” he asked, pulling her into his arms. “Me? I wasn’t the one in the fight. It’s you I’m worried about. You’re bleeding.” “It’s just a scratch. Most of this is Pelham’s from when I went to him. I’m fine, thanks to you. That was quick thinking, throwing the shoe at him. I’m sorry it broke. I know it was special to you.”

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She grabbed his head and kissed him fiercely. When she broke the kiss, she kept her forehead against his, and said, “You foolish man. I would have sacrificed anything to see you safe. Yes, the shoe was lovely, but it is you who matters.” Teodor smiled. “I feel the same way.” He leaned in and kissed her again, stroking her cheek, brushing away tears she hadn’t noticed had fallen. “Um, hello,” said a voice from below them. They looked down at Mariella’s lap to see Finn looking up at them. “This is a little embarrassing, but could you two kiss somewhere else? Yuck.” It felt so good to laugh at Finn’s youthful honesty. She sat Finn up and the three of them hugged until Finn complained he couldn’t breathe. It was a complaint she would be happy to hear over and over. As they stood up and surveyed the situation, it was time to decide what to do next. Teodor called for guards to take Ramat away to the dungeon and to prepare the Duke’s body for burial. He was unmarried and had no direct heirs, so there was no one who needed to be informed of his death. Mariella had Ida summon a doctor to take care of Teodor’s and Finn’s wounds. Both were ordered bed rest. Both protested. “I must address the dukes,” Teodor said, “and let them know what has happened. They need to see I am unharmed and still in power. Not to mention there are other supporters of Ramat who must be found.” “And I have to be with him. I’m a hero,” Finn added. Mariella knew that arguing would be a waste of energy. Instead, she changed out of the dress she was wearing, ordered it burned, and stood by Teodor’s side when he spoke at the dinner. It was a long night, even though they only stayed briefly. Teodor gave a simple recount of what had happened. He made it clear that those who sided with Ramat would be discovered and tried for treason, stating that the Duke of Pelham’s lands were forfeited, and that Finn would be trained to be a knight for his bravery and quick thinking under

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pressure. Mariella thought the boy would explode from pride when he heard of his reward. Her reaction was simpler. She cried with joy and relief. And love.

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Epilogue



The days following Ramat’s capture were a blur of activity. Teodor’s father was

sent for and arrived with his wife in Galenet in record time. She fussed over her son’s well being while the King helped Teodor set things right with the dukes. The morning after Ramat was imprisoned, they discovered several of his men had fled during the night, as had Georgina, making it easier to confirm the loyalty of the remaining knights and guards. The King was pleased with all the procedures and policies Teodor had initiated in the kingdom, as well as his success in defeating Ramat. He announced that the coronation would take place in a week. Teodor and Mariella would be married earlier that same day and festivities honoring both would start immediately after. Mariella barely saw Teodor that week, but enjoyed getting to know her future mother-in-law, whose experience as a queen was invaluable. While managing the details of the wedding preparation, they spoke of court life, the challenges of being married to a leader, and the options available to stave off boredom. Mariella was thrilled to learn she wasn’t alone in that last concern. In addition, it was a wonderful to have a mother figure to share the marriage process with, as well as a fellow queen who could answer her questions and offer recommendations. She knew that after the queen left, they would stay in touch, and she looked forward to their growing relationship. Mariella also spent as much time as she could with Finn, who would be sent away for fostering soon after the parties ended. The course of his life had changed as much as hers had since meeting the prince. In addition to being named a future knight, Teodor decided Finn would be awarded all lands in Pelham’s domain. Mariella found it fitting that Finn would rule Count Bristol’s lands and looked forward to the day she would visit him there. She would miss him terribly, but couldn’t be happier for the future he was going to have.

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The wedding ceremony was held first thing on the morning of the coronation, for which Mariella was grateful. She hadn’t slept much the night before, and she could hardly wait to become Teodor’s wife. The service was beautiful, and although she knew the hall was filled with people, all she saw was the man she loved. For the coronation, her role was simple, to stand by her husband. She was prepared to do that for the rest of her life. When the crown was placed on his head, she smiled until her face hurt, as tears of joy ran down her face. The castle was bustling in celebration that evening. She couldn’t keep track of all the people she had been introduced to, but since many were staying for a week or more, she expected that soon she wouldn’t be looking into a sea of strangers. Since it was also their wedding night, she and Teodor were able to leave the festivities early. That night was hardly the first time she had sex, yet it moved her as if it were. Mariella opened her heart to Teodor as freely as she did her body, and took him completely inside of her. Never had she been happier or more hopeful about the future. “I love you,” she said, looking up at him while they made love and he stroked the walls of her pussy with his cock. Her heart filled at the emotions she was experiencing, more intense than any she had known. He kissed her softly. “And I love you, my queen.” “Queen. That is going to take some getting used to,” she said. “I think I’ve known you were meant for me from our first kiss, strange and brief as it was.” “Even when you were told that I would make an inappropriate wife and that I was a wh…?” He put a finger to her lips to stop the word from being said. As he gazed at her, she was surprised by the seriousness in his eyes. “Only in a moment of rage did I think that you might be involved with Pelham, and that passed quickly, because I know you and how I care for you. Mariella, I would sooner have given up the crown than you as my wife. I can’t imagine leading without you by my side.”

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She couldn’t stop the tears from filling her eyes. That he never doubted her or his feelings for her was overwhelming. Knowing he cared more for her than his position was all she could have ever hoped for. As he kissed her, she lifted her hips to take him in further. Feeling so connected to him physically, as well as emotionally, was thrilling. And brought on her climax with an intensity she hadn’t expected. As her pleasured ebbed, his strokes became measured. Soon after, he came deep within her and the sound of his passion caused her additional delight. She wondered, happily, if perhaps tonight they had created a child. As they lay together afterwards, he traced her skin along the diamond necklace that was the only thing she wore and which he had given her that day as part of her wedding present. “You look lovely in jewels and nothing else.” “Then I will dress this way more often.” “That will certainly give me more reasons to stop work at a reasonable hour and come to you. “ “Now that the coronation is over, I am going to hold you to your promise to never let too much time pass without us having time alone together.” “Anything you want to hold me to is fine. What about the other gift I gave you?” he asked. She smiled as she thought of the surprise he had included for her in the box with the necklace. She adored knowing he thought of it and couldn’t wait to try it out. “Oh yes, the blindfold,” she said. “I am especially looking forward to having one of us wear it some night soon.”

THE END

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