Emerald felt warmth spreading throughout her body. Amid the rising heat, she heard the gentle chime of a bell breaking the silence. A cool sensation brushed against her ankle, prompting her to open her drowsy eyes to take a look.

From her angle, the sight was enchanting.

Her legs were lifted by the man, Alaric kneeling between them. He bent his head, thick lashes shadowing his eyes, his lips drawn into a faintly focused line. His steady hands carefully placed an anklet around her ankle.

At first glance, Emerald was captivated.

The anklet was crafted from seven glass-carved lotus flowers, each petal crystal clear, free of impurities. This was a...