The sunlight slid gently through the palace windows, casting a warm golden glow over the royal chambers. The air smelled faintly of flowers from the courtyard below. Evelyn stretched on the soft bed, the silk sheets wrapped around her like a hug from last night.
Adrian, already dressed in his deep blue royal robe, leaned over her and pressed a kiss to her forehead.
“Sleepyhead " he whispered with a grin. “You look like a goddess this morning"
Evelyn smiled softly, still groggy. “Mm. You’re in a good mood"
He cupped her face gently. “You made me feel like a man again last night. Like I wasn’t a king or a ruler… just yours"
She blushed, remembering her bold words, her hands gripping his shirt, and how she’d whispered: "You're mine. Don't forget it"
“I’ll be back before lunch " he added
