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
More Delicious Desert
The emperor rested a hand on Elian's shoulder, his expression softer than Elian had ever seen it. "I'm grateful for you, Elian," he murmured, his voice carrying a weight Elian could feel deep in his bones. "And I know that Rena and Ireen would be, too."
Emotion flooded Elian's chest, tightening his throat as he struggled to respond. "Thank you, Your Majesty," he managed, his voice barely above a whisper. "It means everything to hear that."
The Emperor nodded, a quiet smile touching his lips as he looked from Elian to Izan, his sons in heart and legacy. "Goodnight, my sons," he said, his tone reverent, as if bestowing a final blessing. He lingered a moment longer, his gaze steady and full, as if memorizing the sight of them together. Then, with a nod, he turned and left.
As the heavy door to Elian's chambers closed, leaving only Izan and Elian bathed in the gentle glow of the room, an unspoken calm settled between them.