[ RAEGON ]
Yanni follows a step behind me as I leave the throne room and head toward my private wing. The heavy doors are thrown open at my approach, and I walk straight through.
Inside my chamber, two maids hurry forward at once, hands stripping me of my robe and clothes at once, leaving me naked.
I close my eyes as the last piece is removed, already craving the heat of water against my skin. The woman from earlier still clings to my thoughts like filth.
I want it burned out of me.
“My King,” Yanni’s voice cuts through the quiet. “Shall I summon the girl?”
I open my eyes as the maids move past us toward the stone bath outside, beginning their preparations. The room empties, leaving only the two of us.
“Another time,” I say coolly. “She will not be dragged to my bed unprepared.”
