Alone again, I stare into the cracked crystal where Maya still stands at her window. My cock aches with the need to claim her, to show her exactly how precious she is, how valued.
Seven graves in my memorial garden. Seven women who trusted me and died.
But Maya won't be the eighth. I'll make sure of that.
Even if it means choosing her survival over my court's.
The hunt has begun. And this time, I intend to keep what I catch.
I close the scrying connection and call for Captain Sage. "Send the invitation. And prepare the guest chambers."
"Your Majesty?"
"Make sure they're perfect. Our little scholar deserves better than a laboratory to die in."
The words hang in the air like a promise. Or a threat.
Either way, Maya Nakamura is about to discover what it means to be truly wanted.
Whether she survives the experience remains to be seen.
CHAPTER 4
MAYA
The invitation arriveson cream-colored paper so thick it feels like silk beneath my fingertips. The script is elegant, flowing, embossed in gold ink that catches the morning light streaming through my dormitory window. Even the envelope smells expensive—something floral and exotic that makes my head spin with possibilities.
The Vine Court Academy cordially invites Dr. Maya Nakamura to present her groundbreaking research on "Stress Adaptation Mechanisms in Plant Reproduction" at our Annual Symposium on Fertility Sciences. Transportation, accommodation, and all expenses will be provided for this honor. Please confirm your acceptance at your earliest convenience.
I read it three times before the words sink in. Someone wants my research. Not Sarah's. Not some famous professor's. Mine.
My hands are shaking as I reach for my laboratory notebook to check the calendar. The symposium is scheduled for next week—barely enough time to prepare my presentation, but I can't imagine saying no to this opportunity.
Still, the smart thing would be to ask Sarah about it. She knows the academic landscape better than I do, understandsthe politics of Fae-affiliated research institutions. Despite everything between us, she's still the only family I have who might offer useful advice.
I find her in her office that afternoon, bent over a stack of papers with that intense focus she brings to everything important. Her sophisticated bob is perfectly styled despite the late hour, her navy dress elegant and expensive-looking. Everything about her radiates success and confidence—everything I'm not.
"Maya!" She looks up with genuine surprise when I knock on her doorframe. "What brings you here? Don't tell me you're finally ready to discuss that dinner invitation."
"Actually, I wanted to ask your advice about something." I hold out the invitation, trying not to seem as nervous as I feel.
Sarah's eyes widen as she reads, her expression shifting from surprise to something I can't quite interpret. "The Vine Court Academy. That's... quite prestigious."
"You think I should go?"
"Of course you should go." Her voice carries a slight edge that makes me look at her more carefully. "This is exactly the kind of opportunity you've been waiting for. Recognition for your work from people who understand its value."
"You don't think it's strange they want me specifically? I mean, there are much more established researchers in plant fertility?—"
"Maya." Sarah sets the invitation down with careful precision. "Stop second-guessing yourself. You're brilliant. Your research is groundbreaking. It's about time someone with real influence noticed."
The praise should make me happy, but something in her tone feels forced. Like she's reading from a script she's memorized.
"Is everything alright?" I ask. "You seem... I don't know. Different."
Sarah's smile becomes radiant, and for the first time today, her enthusiasm feels genuine. "Actually, I have news of my own. David and I are trying for a baby."
The words hit me like a physical blow. I sink into the chair across from her desk, my chest suddenly tight with something that feels like drowning.
