“No, because of my eyes.”
“Because they're not Raltven brown?”
I nodded.
“You're unique. I think that only adds to your beauty.”
“Thank you.” I took a piece of bread, letting my hand linger near his. “I see your beauty too, underneath all this.”
“All this, eh?” He lifted a brow at me.
“Yeah. You need to heal, eat, and shower. But I've seen worse.”
The King chuckled. “I'm sure you have.”
“So, what do you say? Wanna come home with me?”
He sighed. “I'd really like to, but I'm not a man who runs away.”
“It wouldn't be running. Just a strategic withdrawal until I find whoever poisoned you. Think of it as a vacation.”
“A vacation in my city?”
“Well, you need to be nearby to monitor the investigation and to, you know, run the kingdom.”
“I can run the kingdom from anywhere within its borders.” His expression softened. “Where would you go if you could go anywhere?”
I rubbed at my chin. “I don't know. I've never thought of leaving. My clan's here.”
“Family is important.” His stare wandered to my lips. He leaned forward.
For a second, I thought he was going to kiss me. I almost closed my eyes and met him halfway. Thank the Gods I didn't.
“You have some butter on your chin,” the King said and brushed it away. Then, holding my stare, he licked it off his finger.
I tried to swallow and couldn't. My throat was too dry.
“I feel as if I should get you a new tunic.” The King's hand went to the tear and pulled one side closed, but as he did so, he brushed the back of his hand against my nipple.
I shuddered, then whispered, “I'm sure my payment will be enough to cover a new wardrobe.”
“But a tunic wasn't part of the deal.”
“I have more.”
“At home?”
“Yes.”
“Where do you live, Ru?”
“Uh.” I blinked.
“Have you forgotten?” he teased.
I cleared my throat. “Funny that you say that.”
“Why?”
