Page 13 of Henrikk’s Masquerade

Asher.

His heart thrummed with excitement, and he resisted the strong urge to turn around.

That’s it. Come this way, general.

On the far side of the hall, they passed through heavy carmine curtains onto a large balcony.

“Ooh, it’s cold!” Melody instantly cried, covering her bare arms against the icy breeze.

Henrikk didn’t offer her his coat. “We will not be here long, my beloved.” He immediately regretted the term of endearment. He’d meant it mockingly, but it sliced through him like an act of betrayal.

As if he was betraying Asher in some way.

Besides stoking an old family feud, that is.

The wide stone balustrade was covered with snow, as were the dark grounds beyond.

Henrikk leant against the top rail, staring intently at the still curtains. Waiting.

He hummed softly under his breath. Melody had fallen silent.

“W-was there something you wished to speak to me about, Your Majesty?” she asked uncertainly.

“Oh no,” Henrikk replied. “Your mere company is sufficient.” He licked his lips, his heart beating even faster as he waited.

The minutes passed. Finally, the moment came when he sensed Asher’s presence beyond the curtains. The fabric rippled ever so slightly, as if there was a disturbance in the air.

As if someone was peering through.

Excellent. Le

He gave Melody an adoring smile and drew her close, eliciting a surprised gasp from her lips. “I do hope you are enjoying yourself, my dear,” he purred.

“Y-yes, I am. Thank you, Your Majesty.”

His smile widened as he leant in ever so slightly, feigning that he would kiss her.

Three…

Two…

One…

His lips drew nearer to Melody’s glossy, pouted lips.

He felt a twinge of annoyance.

I might actually have to kiss the damn woman.

Suddenly, the curtains were violently swept aside.

Asher emerged, shoulders tense, fists clenched, features stiff with barely concealed fury.

Melody gasped, her face lighting up with a smile. “Brother!”

Henrikk watched in amusement as she ran to Asher and flung her arms around him in a tight hug. Asher returned it awkwardly, his gaze locked on Henrikk’s, conveying unspoken words sizzling with anger.

Melody seemed oblivious to her brother’s unenthused reaction, or perhaps she was overcompensating, because she held him for several seconds before finally releasing him. “Oh, I’m so glad to see you.”