From a Beggar to a Bastard
Elian, a beggar with nothing to lose, died tragically, only to awaken in the body of the despised bastard son of a powerful Grand Duke in the Arcanoria Empire. His second chance at life quickly turned into a nightmare when the Grand Duke’s household was executed, and Elian was sold into servitude as a courtesan. In this cruel new existence, Elian crossed paths with Izan, the enigmatic crown prince who harbored dark secrets of his own. As they grew closer, a forbidden love began to blossom, one that could upend the delicate balance of power in the empire and destroy them both. Torn between survival, betrayal and desire, Elian and Izan faced impossible choices. Could they defy the forces threatening to tear them apart, or would the empire crush their love before it even had a chance to begin? --- Warning: This book contains mature themes. Join my Discord server: https://discord.gg/NJJKETf4
A Day of Firsts (2)
Elian let out a soft laugh, gently pushing Izan away. "You're going to ruin my makeup."
Izan smirked, a teasing glint in his eyes. "Are you sure you're meeting a relative and not a secret lover?"
Elian swatted him playfully on the chest. "Stop it, or I'll make Niko escort me instead."
Niko, who had been observing their exchange with an amused grin, held up his hands. "Oh, no. I'm not getting in the middle of this."
Aria chuckled, shaking her head. "You two are impossible."
The room buzzed with warmth and lightheartedness as Niko and Aria finished adjusting Elian's outfit. Izan watched patiently, his gaze never leaving Elian. When they were done, Izan extended his hand.
"Shall we?" he asked, his tone gentle. "We don't want to keep your brother waiting."
Elian hesitated for a moment before slipping his hand into Izan's. His fingers tightened slightly around Izan's arm as he exhaled a shaky breath. "Let's go."