Before I knew it, Loki’s lips were on mine. Eli blocked the door with his body. The taste of iron filled my senses the moment his tongue entered my mouth. The suddenness of it all caused me to lose the strength in my legs.

I leaned on the table for support. A feverous kiss soon followed, leaving me at the vampire’s mercy. My body warmed while his soft member caressed mine. A soft mewl left my lips when he pressed himself against my core.

Unable to handle it well, I pushed my arms against his chest to make him separate from me. Luckily, my efforts worked since Loki drew away from me, but his eyes showed only irritation. Being this close allowed me to get a better look at the injury on his bottom lip.

 It seemed like something had hit him there. Even though I wanted to worry over it, I couldn’t allow myself to crumble under him. Especially when we were in public. This room was isolated, but everyone was still outside.

I...

“Are you crazy?” I snapped, trying to get back to my feet, but a furious vampire prevented me from doing so.

Though my body shivered under his blue, purplish orbs. I didn’t know how long it would take until I broke. The venom was still present in my body, and I needed to stay away from him. Though if we were in his room.

I would surely lose this fight.

“Oh, sweets, for you. Yeah, I am.” Loki confessed before going to kiss me again.

I turned my head, causing him to click his tongue.

“We’re in public!” I pointed out.

He rolled his eyes, shoving his hand up my dress to lift it.

“They can’t hear a thing from in here. Nor see, since there aren’t any windows in this fucking room.” Loki huffed, digging his hand into my underwear.

Oh… He…

His expression was one of pure irritation. It hadn’t given in even a bit.

“Why the fuck did you come in here with Alistair? Did he do something to you?” the prince asked, tugging on my undies and stockings.

I grabbed onto his hand. I couldn’t allow him to make a mess of me. If he did, I didn’t know if I could come back from it.

“Why do I need to explain myself to you?” I questioned.

It caused Loki to scowl at me somewhat before almost ripping off the clothes he had in his grip. A gasp left my lips as a sly smirk raised on his. He wouldn’t back down. The possessiveness was on full throttle.

“You’re mine, Vivian.” Loki declared.

I gripped onto his shirt tighter. I had almost forgotten how crazy this twin was. His two brothers were nothing like him. Then again, he… I wouldn’t replace him for the world. In his eyes, I was a normal girl.

“I’m not an object! So, I can do what I want!” I growled at the angered vampire, who seemed more ticked off.

That cut on his lip… Why hasn’t he healed it?

It was hard to keep my eyes off it.

“Oh… Did you fuck him?” he suddenly asked, catching me off guard.

How… could he even think that I… No… it’s fine. If he thinks that, then… it’s fine. After all, we aren’t anything.

Most importantly, I didn’t need to explain myself to him.

“Think what you want.” I gazed away, feeling irritated by his question.

He snapped because of it, though. A second later, he yanked my stockings and underwear down, causing me to shiver. Luckily, he hadn’t ripped them off. Though he dragged it off one of my legs.

“You won’t mind if I check?” Loki questioned.

I refused to gaze at him. Before I knew it, he pushed me onto the table. I gasped because of it. I could see Eli by the door, gazing at me, too. His whole body was blocking the door. No one was going to walk in on us, but even so…

Loki’s earlier words hurt me. They shouldn’t have. Yet…

How dare you think I would do this with anyone else?

“If you were so worried that I then why didn’t you come sooner!” I argued, causing him to stop for a moment.

A soft chuckle left him before unbuckling his pants.

“Because of you.” Loki breathed before suddenly caging me under him.

His pants and underwear both hit the floor below. The words threw me into a loop since I was nowhere near him when he got a broken lip. I hadn’t even seen how it happened. Though I remembered the coliseum breaking out in an uproar.

The moment I felt him press against the entrance of my walls caused me to shiver. I gripped onto his shirt tighter.

“What?” I mumbled, trying to keep it together.

It was hard because deep down. I wanted him to shove it into me. I didn’t want to be treated gently, and he wasn’t in the mood to be placid. Grabbing into my long wavy hair, he caused my headband to fall onto the floor from the table.

He dragged it, pushing into me slightly.

A soft mewl left my lips, tugging on his shirt. It was just the tip, but it was already sending pleasure down my spine. Surely, his clothes would wrinkle, but I didn’t care. I even wanted it off him.

“It had been three years since anyone last caused me to bleed in this coliseum. Until you did that stunt and got close to Alistair. Well, I guess Lucas has fucking great timing, too. He wouldn’t stop fucking begging me to forgive him.” Loki breathed, finding comfort within me.

I grit my teeth, trying to keep my voice in check, but I couldn’t keep a lid on it.

“Thanks to him. I… couldn’t come faster. Though—” He continued only for me to interrupt him when he…       

“Heal it!” I squealed, feeling him shove his length all the way into me.

The sudden pitch of my voice caused him to shudder, brushing his lips on my cheek. A soft smirk rose when he realized he had been the only one in me.

An obvious thing... stupid vampire.

“No… I wanted you to see it. It’s because you distracted me. I got hurt.” Loki informed, using the hand he wasn’t holding my hair with to wipe his from his face.

The way he gazed at me as he did. Stirred me up in ways that I didn’t even know I could feel. If only we were in his room. I wouldn’t be as submissive. Then again, he knew I wasn’t that type of girl.

Even though I was at his mercy while we were in public, I wouldn’t stay so silent.

“Hah? You expect me to apologize for your incompetence?” I sneered at him.

He chuckled, holding on to my hair tight enough to trigger me to whine softly. I would never give in fully, even though I wanted to.

“No, I expect you to yell for my name. Especially when I pound the living shit out of you.” Loki licked his lips.

The wound disappeared completely before he spun me around. With my hands on the table, I couldn’t help to gaze behind me when the vampire rammed himself into me. With one hand on my hip, while the other held my hair, I couldn’t help but yelp.

Every time he shoved himself deep into my core, I saw bliss. With how rough he was going, I felt like I could almost see doubles. My voice wasn’t mine anymore. The table somehow was holding itself up.

Though it slightly rocked. However, the moment Loki’s name left my lips, he suddenly stopped, yanking me off the table by my hair before his lips found their way into mine.

The taste of iron was missing this time, while our tongues tangoed with one another. He didn’t have to hold me up for long before I used my hands to hold me in place. Letting my hair free from his grasp, both his hands found their way to my hips.

There, he thrust himself into me again. My mewls melded with Loki’s voice while his movements continued in search of our release. His fangs brushed with my lips the moment I drew away for air.

The moment my eyes caught his expression, it caused my heart to throb. He didn’t need to look like he was enjoying himself like that. The pleasure was so apparent to him. I couldn’t stop myself when I went back for more.

While he rammed himself into me, I feverously kissed him. It wasn’t long after he moaned into our union. His movements became sluggish before his release within me. The entire moment left me to tremble while my body responded to my vampire as well.

My pride didn’t let me go down, though. Soft whines left my lips when he licked them temptingly. For a moment, I tried to catch my breath when he brushed his lips against my rosy cheeks, smirking.

“So… How was it? Am I boring as Alistair says?” Loki panted.

I couldn’t help but release a chuckle before pulling him into another feverous kiss. It was quick though as I pushed him away from me soon after it began. It almost caused him to trip on his clothing.

“You’re worse than a bore. You’re a self-absorbed idiot. How do you think I’ll walk out of here?” I growled, trying to act tough, but I was a jittery mess.

Even pulling my underwear and stockings up was a struggle. One that the vampire enjoyed, gazing at me, and fixing his clothes, too.

“What if that’s what I wanted?” Loki teased.

I scowled at the flirtatious boy, who had filled me up with himself. I would never admit how comforting it was. Though I enjoyed watching all the different expressions he did when he reacted to me.

“Then you’re brain dead,” I pouted, almost tripping on myself.

Luckily, my vampire was there to catch me. I shoved him away again, going to pick up my headband. Though my hair was a mess too. He hadn’t gone easy on it.

“What did you speak about with Alistair?” Loki asked, chuckling at my rough handling.

I rolled my eyes at him. I wasn’t ready to forgive him. Or be sweet to him again. Then again, that just happened by itself. Though I wouldn’t give in that easily.

“Nothing that your brain cells will comprehend.” I huffed, placing the band on my head.

I fixed my hair. Although it wouldn’t be as perfect as it was before he… Well… it would have to do. I hope the people outside wouldn’t care.

“Aw… don’t be like that. I know I rocked your world. And you enjoyed it.” Loki snickered.

I rolled my eyes at him.

He really was a self-absorbed idiot. But he was mine.

“And I find myself in instant regret.” I gibed.

It triggered him to raise his eyebrows and smirk ever so wildly.

“Oh, so you’re sweet and sour?” Loki pointed out.

He just never learned. I puffed my cheeks a bit. He was enjoying this too much.

Is there a moment you didn’t? I wonder...

Though all it did was make my chest sting.

“Only to you.” I huffed, not realizing what I said.

It hit me when I stopped what I was doing before taking a quick gaze at the vampire. He had the sliest smile on his lips. Before I could add anything, he spoke, grabbing onto my hips and pulling me towards him.

“So, you’re only sweet to me?” the playful vampire asked, placing one of his hands on the back of my head before pressing his forehead against mine.

It caused butterflies to rush through me when I gazed into his eyes.

Why… don’t you hate me? Why… show me an expression I can’t allow myself to get lost in?

Unable to help it, I kissed him lightly, only for him to deepen it when he didn’t let me go. Eli took the chance we were near him to nuzzle his head into my cheek a bit. Realizing I had fallen into Loki’s trap, I tore away from the session.

There, I realized there was a string of saliva connecting us. It only took a second for him to pull me back into another passionate kiss. This time, though, my legs gave in, triggering him suddenly to hug me, preventing me from coming down.

Even though he had been sparring, the scent of vanilla and cinnamon were still present on his clothes. For a moment, I buried myself in his chest.

I…

This would be a loss for me.

“If only you weren’t my link,” I mumbled, before holding onto him dearly.

If they didn’t bind him to me, then perhaps we could’ve had a normal relationship. But since his family was so disastrously tied to mine. There was no way to mend it. They would never accept me.

We’ll never be more than enemies.

“I think you would still like me,” Loki smirked.

I scowled at him, pulling away before crossing my arms.

“You’re full of yourself!” I pouted, not being able to believe this vampire who seemed to enjoy playing me to his tune.

Though I couldn’t find it in me to get annoyed.

“I know,” he simpered.

It triggered me to shake my head.

Is it okay for me to feel this at peace? Probably not.

At that moment, I traced my hands on the table and told Loki a few of the things Alistair and I spoke about. All I saw was a flash in his eyes of pure anger before grabbing me by my head and pulling his lips into mine.

It was brief, though.

“I won’t give you up for him.” Loki declared.

My heart went into a marathon.

How can you say those things so easily?

By now, we had been together for three weeks.

“W-what?” I stuttered, confused about what he was saying.

Why would you have to give me up? Ah… To save Alistair, Loki would have to become king. Something that was never his intention. But is that the only way? No… that can’t be the only way to stop this.

Alistair could be the king. He would be a good ruler if he was free from all of his expectations.

“I admit, I didn’t know this shit was going on with him, but I won’t give you up just because he is in pain. Heck, I won’t fuck anyone but you, Vivi.” Loki growled.

 Even knowing this situation, my vampire wouldn’t go for the crown. He never wanted it in the first place. Yet he must’ve gotten the wrong idea somewhere. Then again, I hadn’t told him everything I spoke about with Alistair.

The idiotic vampire had blurted out something nonsensical. And it almost broke me.

“N-no one i-is a-asking you to g-give anything u-up!” I started trying to keep my flustered emotions in check while failing to do so.

 In response to my reaction to his words, he simpered. His sudden expression caused me to turn around. That was dangerous. I had to recover. Thus, the most random thing came out of me again.

“I-I actually t-told Alistair to… be the first homosexual king in Celnaer!” I announced rapidly, triggering Loki to burst into laughter.

That wasn’t good for my heart either.

“Oh, how could you say that to him with a straight face?” he cackled before pulling me by my arms and into his again.

He really loved to have contact with me. Not that I minded it anymore.

“Well… I don’t know if the prediction holds any truth anymore. Maybe the future has already changed.” I mumbled.

It prompted Loki to hold me tighter. His laughter had died down by now, but he was still playful with me. However, the next question snapped me right out. To him, it was so innocent, but to me…

“Is there a way to find out?” Loki asked, blissfully unaware of the torment he set my mind into.

For a moment, I stared at the boy, not knowing what to say.

If you knew about the incantation… would it change the way you gazed at me? Would you use me like the rest and then throw me away? Eh… Probably…

If we somehow found the spell to bind me. He would have to say a name and he could see their life in an instant. No one could hold their sanity if they had the power for that in their hands. For that, we would have to find it first.

Rem was the only one who had my mother’s grimoire.

“There’s a way…” I began, closing my eyes before stepping closer to him.

Grabbing onto his shirt, I opened my eyes, gazing into his blue purplish orbs.

Will my power corrupt him, as it did to everyone before him? Surely… it would.

Sadly, it was the only way to know for sure how his life would end. Perhaps Alistair was a great actor, but something about him told me he wasn’t a murderer. Frustrated, yes, but not someone who would kill because he wants something.

Something was missing in all of this.

“What?” Loki mumbled, not knowing what I was doing before I simpered and kissed him lightly on his lips.

I could never allow his soul to be corrupted by me. I would save him without destroying his mind. Before he could respond to the affection, I tugged away.

“But that’s something I’ll never tell you,” I mumbled before letting him go hand, heading for the door.

I didn’t know what expression I had on my face, but he froze for a moment. All I felt was empty inside.

“We should go,” I added, gazing at my vampire.

Eli still blocked the door. In response, Loki took a deep breath before shaking his head, taking a step in front of me. When he opened the door, it revealed onlookers glaring at us. It was mostly the females.

They had been wondering why we had taken so long. Alistair was in the ring with some others, but quickly gazed towards us too. The eldest brother’s face appeared amused. It triggered me to avoid his glance.

Surely… He knows we weren’t just talking in there.

Somehow, I could tell Alistair knew better. Especially since he left me with perfect hair. Now it was somewhat a mess, thanks to Loki’s rough handling. Though I didn’t care what others thought.

After all, they all wanted the same thing. Only that I didn’t want it unless he wanted it to. I struggled to gaze at the head-on after what had happened. Especially when I felt the warmth from my core.

My prince, though, had different plans. He ignored the onlookers, grabbing me by my hand before dragging me out of the coliseum. He didn’t stop for anyone, not even to bathe himself. No, he did that once he brought me to his room.

There, he called Oz to cancel his plans with him before pulling me into the bathroom. The entire way there, I was speechless. He didn’t care how anyone saw us. In fact, he ignored every protest I gave.

Even now, when I asked him what he was doing, he didn’t utter a word. Instead, Eli closed the door behind us when Loki removed his clothes. Once my vampire was bare, he tugged on my dress.

Words refused to leave my lips while I gaze at his face. There I saw the gentlest expression he had ever given me. He captivated me. Letting the dress slide off me, Eli prepared the bath, while Loki traced his hands over my skin.

His bond mark was visible to me. A reminder of our relationship and where I laid all the love bites I had made on him. I guess I was possessive, too.

Why he didn’t heal them bewildered me. Mine was also on display. He chuckled when his touch caused me to shiver. His smile seemed bitter-sweet. His fingertips went up to my chin, where he pulled me into a brief kiss.

He undid my bra, allowing it to fall on the floor below before my underwear soon followed. Pulling away from my lips, he gazed at me before smiling and planting another peck on my forehead.

“I… don’t know what you were thinking back in the coliseum. Or if you want to talk about it, but I want you to know. The only thing you’ll ever feel from me is pleasure and annoyance, Vivi.” Loki smirked, playfully catching me off guard.

For a moment, I gazed at the vampire, not knowing what to say. I must’ve shown how I felt about his previous question when I answered vaguely.

Did I have a sad expression on my face? Is that why you pulled me all the way here to cheer me up? What a stupid mortal boy… Why do you keep trying to shove yourself into a heart you already smashed open?

I was already caring too much about individuals. Allowing them to affect me in the way I spoke and behaved. This man would be the end of me. I knew it, yet I couldn’t pull away from his warmth.

I wanted more of it.

“I… don’t want to talk about it,” I replied, gazing at him.

He nodded, softly tracing my cheek before pulling me into another kiss. In that bathroom, we spent another warm moment. One I couldn’t run away from. The way he cuddled me while we sat in the warm tub after washing our skins was so welcoming.

That I couldn’t help when I took him at his word. While in the tub, I whispered about everything I had talked about with Alistair. Loki would briefly interrupt me by kissing me. Luckily, he let me finish everything I had to say before he took our loving to the bed.

There I lost myself for a bit. Well, until a call came for the prince who picked it up, even though we were in the middle of it. I found myself with my knees and arms on the bed when I took a soft glance at him.

One of his hands was on my hip while Eli was coiled around our bodies. He had been the one who handed the phone to his summoner when it ran over three times. In Loki’s orbs, there was only the reflection of annoyance, hanging up without saying a word to the other person on the line.

Releasing a sigh from his lips, he gestured to Eli to get us clothes before pulling himself out of me. Instinctively, I fell onto his bed, triggering him to chuckle, tracing his hands down my back.

“Sorry, sweets, Oz is coming over with Leo. It seems my grandfather wants to have a word with me and Alistair.” Loki announced, prompting me to get a rush of energy.

In an instant, I got up from the bed and held onto him. He was leaving me.

No... I...

After being with him for so many days, I didn’t want to be away from him. Those chats with Asher. No one could attend. Only the boys and Eli were the ones there. Well, usually…

“What?” I mumbled, not wanting him to go.

He kissed me in response. This time, though, I wouldn’t relent in my grip like the last time he used this trick. Another chuckle left his lips before I knew it. I was on the bed again while his tongue caressed my mouth.

A whine left me when he tugged away with a smirk. I didn’t want to stop what he started, but it seemed he would go no matter what I did.

“Come… get dressed. You’re coming with me too.” Loki playfully licked one of my breasts, which caused me to shiver.

We had been in the middle of it when he halted. Another whimper left me while his fingers traced my curves.

“Can I?” I shivered, trying to keep it together.

I didn’t want to move, to be honest. But the only way to stay with him was by getting up and readying myself. Though I never expected I could come.

“Not like this.” Loki teased, brushing his lips down my chest and onto my belly.

Eli slid back into the bed with us. He had brought clothes for us.

So, I’m going with him… Good.

That was a bit more acceptable, but stopping before... wasn’t.

“Hm… Why not?” I smirked, causing my vampire’s eyes to twitch.

His lips hovered over mine playfully. Softly, he bit into his bottom one before grabbing me by my chin. He wanted to make sure my eyes were on him. Even though they had no other place to be.

“Oi… Don’t make me…” Loki breathed, warning me about what my words might cause him to do.

I pressed my lips against his. He had stopped in the middle of it all. Surely, it frustrated him, too. After a quick peck, I drew away from him to see his smile curve up even more pronounced.

For now, he’s mine.

“You still haven’t…” I continued, pushing the right buttons.

I wanted him to lose it, as he had done to me. Luckily, all the love he had given me when he came back from the coliseum. It helped me level my head even more. Though tonight if Oz wasn’t in the room with us, I would lose it again.

And I wanted to surrender it. I reached down for Loki’s heat, causing him to groan the moment I touched it. Narrowing my eyes, I pumped him a bit. He shuddered before grabbing onto my hands, gazing at me in such a way that I didn’t want him to go anywhere.

“No, sweets, not now. I have to calm down.” He sighed.

I clicked my tongue, wrapping my arms around his neck.

“What if I want you to stay excited?” I murmured.

His eyes softened, trailing his hands down my curves again. The temptation was almost too much, but he knew how his grandfather was. Stopping at my back, he sat us up on the bed. At that moment, I launched myself into him before kissing him.

The sudden motion caused the vampire to fall onto his back. A soft moan left his lips. It wasn’t long before I placed his heat back into my core. Instinctively, he trusted himself into me, causing me to fall against his chest.

He held onto my hips while I held myself up, barely. The sensation of our skins touching was always surreal yet alluring.

“Shit, Vivi! You’re too naughty. What if Ozzy walks in and sees your… you know.” Loki huffed, unable to stop the bucking of his hips.

Pleasure filled my senses; in such a way, I didn’t care for what he said. Though he meant my mark, I couldn’t care less if the other brother saw my body. As long as he was the one touching.

“Shut it! I don’t care right now. Just make me…” I growled, dragging him into a feverous kiss.

He continued to plunge his length into me. In search of my release, I swayed my hips to his rhythm. A mewl left my mouth, finding enjoyment in riding him like this. His hands traveled from my hips to my breast before he squeezed them lightly.

A second later, a knock came from the front door. I gave off a light hue. It surprised me, although the brooch that I usually used was still in the dress I was wearing. Sigils only allow knocks to go through the soundproofing.

This allowed the users to know that someone was at the door. A moan came from Loki’s lips when the sound caused me to tense up. At that moment, his earlier words played through my mind.

Shit! If Oz walks in… I...

A second later, I was on the bed. Loki pounded himself into me a couple of times before we both felt the bliss. Another knock came when my vampire leaned into my ear.

“Naughty, girl. You’re lucky, Leo’s with him.” He purred, nipping at my ear before pulling away.

Loki picked up the clothes Eli had brought while I grabbed onto my dress. Every reach for my breath felt like it was escaping me. The slippery snake, though, slipped through my legs. His smooth, cool skin caused me to shiver.

A smirk rose on the boy's lips, gazing at me. Though it almost captivated me again. It was sad to see him clothe himself, but he quickly joined me by the bed. Holding his shirt in his hands, I gazed at him to receive a kiss from him.

At that moment, my half-worn dress almost fell out of my shoulders before he tugged the strands together. Eli slithered off to the side while I focused on the kiss. It was short and sweet. The way he trailed his hand on my cheek after the moment was over.

It would always be ingrained within me. His soft blue purplish orbs gazed at me with an emotion I couldn’t allow myself to feel. But I did. I felt it in the way he touched and kissed me. I had to pull away, but I couldn’t.

I didn’t have the power to reject his affection. Even though I knew it would only hurt us in the end, I simpered, prompting him to kiss me lightly. It was another short one, but he pressed his forehead with mine soon after.

He seemed like he wanted to say the world, but bit his lip, yanking himself away from me. I knew the vampire was in my grasp. That he had a type of affection for me. Yet I wasn’t meant for these moments.

No, in the end, I would ruin them. And he knew that too, in a way. It had to be why he didn’t tell me how he felt. I mean… I didn’t either. Instead of uttering another word, I dressed. After I was set, Loki opened the door to an annoyed Oswald.

He bickered with the vampire about his time management. Leo, on the other hand, was happily staring at Zoe, who was by their room. Emma wasn’t there, though. Probably was helping Gerta with something.

The maids had been getting ready for the ball. It seemed Oswald didn’t want her around him until he figured out his feelings. I guess he was keeping his promise to not hurt her. Though I wasn’t sure if this was the right way to go about it.

After a small discussion, Oz rolled his eyes before gazing at me with a bit of resentment. In response, I smiled politely at him before slowly following Loki. Both of the brothers seemed at odds, though that wasn’t unusual.

This time, though, it was my fault. Loki hadn’t pointed the finger at me. Though I knew I caused the delay Oswald had to endure. Avoiding Leo, I stuck near Loki who didn’t my having me close. Although we weren’t touched or anything like that.

But it was pleasing to know he was just a step away from being in my grasp. His death was something that was flooding my mind.

Why does anyone want you dead? Why do I find myself so helpless when it comes to you?

I didn’t know what to believe anymore. Yet I needed to move past it. It was the only way to make sure he was okay.

But how?

Alistair was looking more like a victim than a complicated murderer. Even when he walked into the throne chamber, he appeared tired of being here. Loki and I had gotten there with Oswald and Leo before the older brother showed his face.

Is that how Alistair gazes at the king every time?

This young man could’ve been an actor, but he had me convinced that he was no murderer. The meeting went as much as anyone would have expected, though. The eldest got yelled at for not being able to best his younger brother.

A disgrace, Asher called the poor boy, who rolled his eyes at the king. I was with Oswald and Leo on the side while the king turned his sight onto Loki.

“So, you finally found a good blood bank, boy?” the king hissed, annoyed at the boy I adored.

To the king, Loki was a wasted gift. Someone who he couldn’t control fully thanks to Rem’s involvement. The half-breed’s power even scared the king of vampires. Though what he feared the most was Alijah, who was another loose cannon.

Those two were unstoppable together. And they were Loki’s caregivers. At least that development led to something good. Though Alistair, on the other hand, was defenseless to overpower the king’s rule.

But he was an old man…

Something isn’t right.

“I don’t know what you mean by that,” Loki answered.

Carefully, I studied from the sidelines. Every motion the ill king did.

Is it him? Does he want Loki dead? No…

There was no reason for the king to want him dead. After all, he wanted Loki’s bloodline to stay in the castle. But what if that was also the reason to get rid of him?

 “Not only are you refusing to marry a noble girl. Now you drink commoner's blood?” Asher questioned harshly, gazing at me.

I tried so hard not to scowl at him. This man had the gall to call me a commoner. If only he wasn’t closely related to my timeline. At least he would die soon either way. And painfully. Vampires and their purity cost them to heir an incurable disease.

It killed most men and women. And those who didn’t die. It made them infertile. All to keep their powers.

Is it worth it? I... doubt it.

“I don’t know what you mean by that, king Asher.” Loki tried to keep it together.

Though the hostility in his voice was clear. He didn’t enjoy having me anywhere near Asher’s attention. It was probably why I was allowed in here in the first place. The moment his eyes shifted to me.

I knew I would walk on eggshells the entire time. After all, who would deny a king's request? Unlike many, he was above the law.

“You, girl… come over here,” Asher stated.

I hesitated to take a step forward, but I did it anyway. The king could’ve me kicked out when he pleased. That was something I had to avoid. I had to comply in the hopes something would intervene.

However, Loki knew better. Unlike him, I had no protection from the king. If he did anything to me, Rem wouldn’t care. In fact, she might relish the fact I was out and exposed.

“Grandfather, please… She’s just a girl. She isn’t special. You know I don’t drink blood usually. Hers I can tolerate. That’s all.” Loki changed tunes, taking a glance at me.

The fear in his voice was apparent. Yet I continued to step forward while the king of vampires eyed me down. A bite from him wouldn’t feel as pleasant as Loki’s. No, it would be horrendous. But even so, I knew if I refused; it was over.

There was no winning in this situation. Asher would either drain me of my blood or get addicted once he tasted me. Both versions I needed to avoid, but I couldn’t refuse. Being kicked out wasn’t in the cards either.

Loki’s words brushed right past the old vampire, who wanted to know if the rumors were true. It didn’t help that he was also one of the most powerful royals in the castle. At this distance, I wouldn’t stand a chance.

Even with Loki's healing magic. I couldn’t ruin his life. The moment I got closer enough to the two boys. Alistair placed his arm in front of me, preventing me from going forward.

“Grandfather, I tried her blood. It tastes worse than a peasant’s. I think the only issue here is that Loki’s head over heels for his maid. A temporary affliction.” Alistair announced.

In a moment, I saw when surprise wash over Loki while I hid mine.

This…

Alistair had just saved me again. I couldn’t squander the opportunity. For a quick moment, his eyes met with mine, while I tried to keep a clear head.

Why... go this far for me?

“Is that so?” Asher questioned his grandson, who stood strong.

This prince was used to the king’s harsh gaze. He knew what would come if anyone insulted him. Including himself…

“Yeah, there isn’t a drop about her that’s special. Well, perhaps her soft skin, but aren’t you a tad old for her?” Alistair noted.

It prompted the old king to smirk before gazing at me.

“Is this true, girl?” he asked.

Shit... Now to look like a whore. Well, better than having to leave.

I tried my best to stay steady. After all, this king was a mortal man.

What harm can he do to me?

Well… actually a lot. But I wouldn’t allow myself to think about that. Alistair had given me a way out, and I wouldn’t squander it. Even if it hurt Loki.

Though… surely my vampire knows I would never…

“Yes, he tried my blood out of curiosity,” I announced, unwavering in resolve.

My goal was to stay here at all costs, even if my reputation was tarnished. All that mattered was to be near Loki.

As long as you know the truth. Nothing else matters.

“When did this happen?” Asher queried, amused by the turn of events.

I felt Loki’s gaze on me heavy.

You know this is a lie, right…?

“If… you must know. It was in the coliseum today. Alistair was showing me affection I just couldn’t refuse. After all, I serve the princes in any services that they require.” I answered bluntly.

It felt morally repulsive to say that. Yet I couldn’t show it. Not while I was in this king’s gaze. No, I held firm with Alistair on my side. I owed him twice now.

Geez… These princes never let me think straight. Anything... to stay and save them. If I can do one good thing... then this will be it.

“Services? Oh, come on, I know you enjoyed it more than a service, little lamb.” Alistair suddenly pulled me into his side, holding me by my waist.

The sudden movement caused me to widen my eyes while I tried to keep up. It was getting too fast for me to follow. I had to endure. Plus, his touch wasn’t as revolting as I once thought. He had no interest in me.

If anything, he was the same as any maiden from my coven. Girls usually never looked at me the way men did. Placing my hands on his chest and shoulders, I played the part he proposed to me.

“Oh, I did, my prince. I enjoyed it very much.” I smirked at him, causing him to respond the same.

Eli, who was by Loki’s neck, quickly glided between us. There he grew a few sizes, which successfully separated us.

“Oi…” Loki hissed under his breath.

I gazed at him to see his pure annoyance. To him, it was unacceptable that another man was holding. Especially after he had held me so tightly under him just moments before. Right now, though, wasn’t the time to worry over trivial things.

Not while the king stared down at us.

“Hm… Very well… I don’t need to squander my stomach on filthy commoners' blood. If it’s good for you, child, then so be it.” Asher sighed.

For a moment, I felt a wash of relief, but it quickly got squandered by his next words. This king was lucky he was too close to my links.

“Though… Girl… you need to know there’ll never be a thing between you and these boys.” He informed, placing his elbows on his knees.

He used his knuckles to support his head.

There... would be nothing... I know that already! I don’t need you telling me that you old fart!

“Don’t worry, my king. I never thought there was a possibility. It was just a craving of flesh.” I answered, feeling hollow inside.

He’s right… this will never work. He’s right… but I… am I hoping? Wishing? No... that’s dangerous.

I couldn’t allow that to happen.

Never...

“If you get pregnant—” Asher began, only to be interrupted by my vampire.

He wasn’t happy with how things were going. In fact, I was sure I would hear about it afterward.

“Grandfather!” Loki snarled at the king, who scowled at the young boy.

I couldn’t allow it to go any further, though. In response, I took a step forward. No one would hurt my vampire. Well, that didn’t include me. Although the king was weak, he still had the resources to make Loki’s life a living hell.

It was why Alistair was still under his boot. He could even try to stop Rem’s entrance to Celnaer. It would cause mayhem.

Yet why are your eyes so dead, Asher? Something isn’t right.

“Oh, that won’t happen. I’m just the prince’s personal maid. Nothing more, I assure you. Anything between us would be an abomination.” I assured the king, who glared at me for the interruption.

“Ouch, did that hurt, little brother?” Alistair took a jab at Loki, who scowled.

“Shut the fuck up, Alistair.” My vampire hissed before clicking his tongue.

“Quiet…” Asher sighed, losing interest in me the moment the two princes began bickering.

The king gazed at me before waving his hands away. I never thought I would see those red eyes so tired of life before.

“Dismissed, girl. You may return to where you were,” he declared.

I nodded, bowing to him respectfully.

“Yes, my king.” I acknowledged before walking toward Oswald and Leo.

Both appeared to be done with the entire ordeal. The king and the princes, though, weren’t done yet. Before I even found my way back, Asher spoke again.

“That’s a disgrace… I hope you do nothing foolish with your servant boy. I’ve tolerated a lot of things from you. From all of you… But disobey me and you’ll see what’s in store.” The king chided Loki, who clenched his hands.

“Yes…” my prince held in his anger.

Somehow, he didn’t break. Yet he was seething in anger as his hands trembled a bit. Eli had returned to him. Though he sometimes would take soft glances in my way.

“Well, then… to this…” Asher began, only to cough soon after.

It almost seemed like he went into a fit. The princes stared at the ill king without raising a hand to help. It was almost pitiful since it was obvious how much they both resented the old man. After a bit, he calmed down enough to speak normally.

What came next from his mouth, though, wasn’t what I expected. The ball that was going to happen in a week appeared to have a guest list larger than life itself. Many of them were nobilities, though there would also be others.

The council of Cerberus comprised different races. They were all to attend, too. This would also be a retirement party for Asher. His placeholder wasn’t announced yet. All seemed to point to Lexi to be a proxy, while Alistair proved his worth.

A pity, really, since the eldest would probably be a better king than Asher was. It even looked like Rem and Alijah would be there. Something I didn’t want since it would take me directly to them. I wasn’t ready to see the person who threw my current life into disarray.

But that would be something to navigate through. That wasn’t the only thing that Asher had to say, though. No, he told the boys to find wives in the ball. That was before dropping the bomb that he was planning a big sword tournament in two months.

There the two princes would compete. And whoever was victorious. They would win a step closer to the crown. Of course, the old king warned Loki that if he forfeited the match, then… Well, he would automatically gain the crown and disgrace Alistair.

To put it bluntly, he threatened to disown the older brother if he lost. That the match had to be won in all sincerity. At least the old man wasn’t a fool, but to disown a boy who had lived under the title of royalty all his life appeared extreme.

There was no love in the air when he announced that. It was obvious Loki would win if he went hard. Though, familiars wouldn’t be allowed during the match. Of course, whoever won the crown would have to marry a female vampire.

A fertile one, unlike the king’s wife. It was a little disheartening to hear him say that. Though what was worse was Oswald’s gaze on me the entire time. Everything that had happened between Alistair and me intrigued him.

Though I wished he wouldn’t gaze at me. It was always grueling to be under his microscope. Luckily, Leo made it less when he asked his big cranky brother a question. For a moment, I felt relief from everything that had happened.

Though none of it was good. Loki would have to fight without holding back if he wanted to avoid the crown. While Alistair had to fight to keep his current life. Not only that, if he really wanted Loki to not win the crown.

Then he would have to get serious.

But was this enough to pit the brothers in such a way that one of them would end up dead? No…

There had to be another reason. One that I would soon find. And it would be a turning point in my life. Where… I would have to choose… what I desired most.