The Gilded Cage

“A lot has happened,” Jaren repeated her words in a whisper, his thumb stroking her cheek. “A lot has changed.” He leaned in so close that she could feel his breath on her skin. “But the one thing that hasn’t is how I feel about you.”

“I know it’s selfish,” Jaren said, leading Kiva toward the windows, “but I don’t want to share you with anyone else tonight.” The orchestra launched into another melody. “May I have this dance, Kiva?”

“Thank you, Jaren. You always seem to be saving me.”

“And I always will,” he returned.

his lips coming to press against her forehead, before he whispered against her skin. “Stay with me tonight.”

It wasn’t an order, and despite the heat that had been in his eyes just moments ago, Kiva knew he didn’t intend for anything more intimate to happen between them.

Disappointment filled her, but at the same time, so did an acute sense of relief.

“I’m not sure —” she started, her voice wobbling from the intense feelings still simmering within her.

“Please,” Jaren begged.

The crown prince. Begging.

“After what just happened, I need to know that you’re safe,” he said, still quietly.

“You say you became the darkness, that it consumed you,” he said, his cobalt eyes soft on hers, “but I call bull on that. I’ve never met anyone who shines as brightly as you do.”

“Should I, um . . .” Kiva waved to her outfit, fearing her clothes were too casual for dinner with the royal family.

Jaren’s eyes didn’t wander from her face, his tone soft as he said, “You’re perfect, just as you are.”