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“Tem,” Caspen said. “Are you angry?” She shook her head. “No. But…it seems like such a risk.” He nodded. “It is a risk. Many basilisks choose not to bind their engagements in blood for that very reason.” “But you chose to bind ours.” “Yes,” he said quietly. “I did.” “Why?” Caspen looked at her for…

Leo paused, then said simply, “Unpleasantness.” From the way Maximus was looking at her like she was a bug on the bottom of his shoe, Tem could guess what kind of unpleasantness might be imminent. Then again, it couldn’t be anything worse than what she’d already been subjected to her entire life. Maximus may be…

Leo’s arm encircled her waist as they ascended the stairs together, and when they reached the landing, he stopped in his tracks. Tem thought he might say something or perhaps make a move on her. Instead, he closed his eyes, leaning his head back so it was resting against the wall. He let out a…

The whiskey had not been kind to her. Tem woke with a groan, massaging her temples in an attempt to alleviate her pounding headache. Her first thought was of Leo. She pictured him waking up next to Vera, their naked bodies intertwined, their lips touching. The visual was enough to bring the whiskey right back…

She stepped closer. I had to see you. It is not safe. It was Caspen all over again. Tem shook her head, hooking her fingers through the bars of the cell. I’m going to get you out. You just need to hold on until the wedding. Her father closed his eyes. It is too late…

“Would he?” Tem arched her eyebrow petulantly. “Your son already considers you cruel. Somehow I doubt this would help his impression.” Maximus opened his mouth to retaliate. But another voice spoke before he could. “Tem?” Tem turned around to see Leo on the staircase. Concern for her clouded his face. He stepped closer. “What’s going…

He stepped forward, gathering her in his arms. As soon as his skin touched hers, Tem felt her resolve fade. He smelled good, and he felt even better. Her body had missed him, even if her brain was furious with him. By the time they got to his chambers, Caspen’s hands were already sliding her…

“I saw the invitation.” She pointed at the letter on the table. “Are you ready for tonight?” Tem sighed. Nothing could possibly prepare her for the ball. “I don’t know,” she said. Sympathy creased her mother’s forehead. “My dear.” She crossed to Tem, placing a hand on her cheek. “You have made it this far….

“Who said anything about my room?” Tem rolled her eyes. If Leo had his way, they’d never leave his room. He raised his arm, offering her the crook of his elbow. “I was thinking we could take a stroll, if it pleases you.” “Your father won’t like that.” “Good.” In reply, Tem laced her fingers…

He turned again, and Tem had to run to keep up with him. “It doesn’t matter what I put in my body. He’s in my mind. He’ll always be there.” Leo shook his head. “This cannot go on.” They had come to it at last: the moment when Leo’s patience ran out. “What do you…