Theo winds his arms around my shivering body. I can smell it again, lavender, and all I want is to stay right here in his embrace.

When my tears die down, I whisper, “Should we go on with it then?” I ask. “The rejection.”

“What are you saying?!” His features darken and I look away.

“I am not meant to become a King’s lover. I think it’s better to stop this before this goes on.”

Theo pulls away. I grimace as he tightly grips my shoulders. “Do you really think I still can let you go?! I just found you!”

“But I’m—”

“We will keep it a secret. No one...