Chapter 2

2

The night before my official audience with the Lion King, I tied silver bells around my ankles and danced alone under the moonlight.

King Magnus stepped out from the shadows like a predator stalking prey, lunging to pin me against the grass.

I let out a soft gasp, wrapping myself around him like a supple serpent.

His rough hands gripped my slender waist as he inhaled the scent behind my ear. "Your clan truly breeds born seductresses. The elder sister was gorgeous, and the younger one is just as intoxicating."

"Is that so?" I twirled a strand of his hair around my finger, pouting playfully. "Think carefully, My King. Am I not far more enchanting than she was?"

My crimson silk robe drifted to the ground, unveiling pure decadence.

"Your Majesty! I have been searching everywhere for you," a sharp female voice broke the silence. "The First Prince has grown taller again. Come and see him with me."

Noble Consort Corinna hurried into the pavilion, only to find one of my legs casually hooked over the King's hip.

The First Prince was Magnus's only living heir, but with me beneath him, the King hesitated.

"My King, you are young and mighty," I whispered against his lips, my breath teasing his neck. "I can bear you as many cubs as your heart desires."

My fingers traced his jaw as I murmured, "They say your bloodline is thin. Could it be because your best moments are always interrupted like this?"

Corinna called out again, but Magnus's face darkened with displeasure. "I will see the boy tomorrow. Corinna, you are growing far too insolent and forgetting your place!"

I tossed Corinna a mocking smirk as my body swayed with the King's rhythm. Watching her choke down her fury, I laughed with absolute delight.

Noble Consort, your nightmare is finally here.