He arches a brow.
“Your reputation precedes you in this area, too, you know.”
“Does it?”
“I’ve heard rumors about the things that go on in this room.”
“And here I worked so hard to keep those massive orgies a secret.”
My face heats. “You’re not being serious.”
“Maybe, maybe not.” He takes a sip of his drink. “I do have an insatiable appetite for a lot of things.”
“I’m sure.” I clear my throat. “So. Exactly how many courtesanshaveyou taken in this bed?”
He lifts his eyes to the coffered ceiling, as if trying to remember the exact number. “This bed? None.”
I give him a skeptical look.
“It’s a new bed; I’ve only had it a week or so.”
“That must be why it’s so uncomfortable,” I grumble—though it’s a lie. It actually feels like I’m sinking into a pile of clouds.
“We could break it in better, if you’d like. But I’m not sure it would help with your recovery.” His eyes shine with something like mischief. “I’m not known for fucking gently—as I’m sure all the rumors have told you.”
“I’ll pass, thank you.”
He shrugs. “Standing invitation.”
“Always pass.”
“Disappointing.”
I look to the door. “Can I go now?”
“I’m afraid not.”
A different sort of heat floods through me. “I’m fine, really?—”
“You’re not. And, doctor’s orders aside, while you slept there was another rebel attack near the palace gates. It’s not safe for you to be alone tonight. You will stay close to me.”
“By which you mean…”
His eyes sweep over the massive bed, focusing on the empty half.
I grit my teeth. “I’m not sleeping in this bed with you.”
“Then feel free to move to the floor. But you will not leave my room. Or my protection.”
My insides do funny things at the wordsmy protection, but I ignore the sensation and instead level a glare toward him. “Youcould sleep on the floor,” I suggest, “and be a gentleman.”
“I’m not a gentleman.” He swirls his drink. “I’m a vile, murderous king.”
“I hate you.”
“Well, as long as you do it from within the safety of my bedroom, I’ll permit it.” With that, he disappears into the adjoining washroom and closes the door.
I hear water running a moment later, then the sound of him changing…he’s simply going through his nighttime routine as if this is all perfectly normal for him, holding an injured woman captive in his bed.
