Evelyn’s fork clattered onto her plate loud enough to pause conversations around the table.
Stand up straight and smile. Or sit up straight and don’t cry. Whatever.
She took a bite of food like nothing happened, and conversations resumed.
“I’m sorry,” Haydn said softly. “That was rude of me and I didn’t mean it. I am only yours, Evelyn. I promise you that.”
“Then stop saying things to piss me off.”
“Can I say how lovely you look in that gold dress?”
Her anger lessened at his words. “No.”
Haydn grinned, knowing he was winning. “Can I say how magnificent your hair is? I’ve been dreaming about those fiery curls since I met you.”
Despite herself, Evelyn suppressed a smile. “No.”
He leaned close to her and whispered, “Can I say how much I want to touch and taste you?”
Heat rose in Evelyn’s core, but it wasn’t her Fire magic.
Leo’s voice called across the table, making Evelyn jump. “Councilor Ritter, how long will you be staying with us?”
“Not sure,” Haydn said without missing a beat. “I would leave now if Princess Evelyn agreed to go with me, but I don’t think she’s ready yet. Maybe after dessert?”
The four lords acquired expressions that asked,What the fuck is happening?Moeller poured himself more wine. Evelyn slid low in her chair.
Leo fumed. “Princesses can’t just be removed from a kingdom.”
“It’s not like I’m going to tie her up,” Haydn said. “It’s her choice.”
King Tristan chuckled. “I’d like a little more warning before my daughter leaves the continent, I think.”
Evelyn could tell her father wasn’t exactly happy. But the king making light of it helped everyone else relax and go back to their meal.
“What are you doing?” Evelyn hissed at Haydn.
“Claiming you for myself.”
Oh, fuck. Do I like that answer?
“I’m not property you can purchase.”
“No, Princess,” he soothed. “You are the treasure I earn for slaying the dragon.”
Is that romantic or is that a threat? Haydn and his fucking riddles.
“And who is the dragon?” she asked.
“Whoever is making you cry, my love.”
Evelyn’s eyes automatically went to Leo before she caught herself. “Can we have a normal conversation for once?”
“Sure. How was your day?”
Actually, no. This is weirder.
Evelyn asked her own question. “Where do you stay during your visits to Gryon?”
