Like His Own Child

There were knights all around, and even Ana was nearby, which only served to deepen Oriana's embarrassment. Not only was Arlan holding her so closely, but his words were suggestive and shameless.

Oriana shot Arlan a glare. "Will you please behave? We are outside. Everyone can see us."

Arlan chuckled and glanced at his knights. "What do you guys see?"

"Nothing, Your Highness," they replied in unison, promptly turning around to face their backs toward the couple.

With a playful glint in his eyes, Arlan turned back to the woman attempting to free herself from his grasp. "They see nothing."

Oriana frowned. This prince and his men were like peas in a pod.

"I want to talk about Snowflake. Can you let me go now?" Her voice dripped with annoyance.

"At one condition."

"What?" she demanded.

Arlan's face drew closer, his voice a whisper against her ear. "Tonight, you will allow me to provide you with my warmth."