"Your safe word still applies. It will always apply. But also remember. . .the Dragon chose this for a reason. I don’t know why but. . .he wants to show you something about him. . .about yourself."
The cart slowed.
Through the trees, I could see a structure emerging. Traditional. Elegant. A tea house, glowing softly from within.
The cart stopped in front of it.
"One more thing." Hiroko's voice stopped me before I could move. "Be bold, Nyomi."
I turned back to her. “Okay.”
"You are his queen. You've already proven yourself as a woman who can stand beside him." Her eyes held mine. "Continue to do so. When you walk into that tea house, yank off your cape and stroll in with pure dominance."
“Alright.” I stepped out.
The red leather hugged my body. Even with the cape, the night air kissed my bare skin. My braids sat heavy in their bun, exposing my neck, my shoulders, the bite marks the Dragon had left on my flesh.
I walked toward the tea house.
My heels clicked against the cool stone.
Lanterns flickered on either side of the entrance. Through the paper screens, I could see light—warm, golden, dancing.
The assistants reached the door before us and slid it open.
Soon we stepped inside and my whole body went rigid.
Oh. . .
Because now, I understood why Hiroko wanted nothing on my skin.
Now, I understood why my hair had to be pulled back.
Now, I understood what we were playing with tonight.
Holy fuck. He is absolutely crazy!!
Chapter twenty
The Hot Surprise
Nyomi
I stepped inside the tea house, and my whole body went rigid. It took all of my energy to take off my cape.
Thankfully one of the assistants rushed to grab it from me.
Oh my God.
I scanned the space.
Gold fabric draped from the ceiling, cascading down the walls in heavy waves. Candles covered every surface—hundreds of them. Their flames danced in the air. The smell of smoke and incense filled my lungs.
Sweet.
Heavy.
Sensual.
