~ Aria ~
The silks cling to me like a second skin—soft as water, heavy with command. The maids fasten jeweled clasps at my shoulders, drape golden chains across my hips, and comb my hair into waves that fall down my back. They murmur prayers under their breath, as though afraid of the moment the Alpha King will come to inspect his prize.
But he does not wait outside. He is already here. Watching.
His presence is a storm in still air—gaze sharp, stripping me bare though I am wrapped in silk and gold. Every movement of the maids is meant for him. Every jewel laid against my skin, an offering.
When they finish, they bow deeply and scurry away, leaving me alone beneath his shadow.
kael steps closer, circling me like a predator examining his prey. His fingers brush over the fabric at my wa
