Sovereign Mage

Julian was clearly satisfied by her submission. He took a step closer, his grin widening as he saw the flush of embarrassment spread across her face.

"That was clearly a joke," he said. "But you sure are already faithful to your new husband."

The Countess blushed even more, her heart raced, and she lowered her gaze, unable to meet Julian's eyes as the weight of his words pressed down on her. 

"But maybe one day," Julian said, his voice softening for just a moment.

The Countess widened her eyes, her breath catching as she tried to process his words.

Was he teasing her again, or did he mean it? The uncertainty ate at her, leaving her caught between doubt and a strange, dangerous hope. 

Julian locked his eyes on hers, his expression suddenly more serious as the playful teasing vanished.

"What's your name, Countess?" he asked.

"Lilia, my lord," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.