Dowry From A Brother

The royal court session was over, and everyone departed for their respective destinations. Oriana and Arlan, accompanied by Jasper, Slayer, and two new lords from the northeast, headed toward the palace of Thistle. Someone awaited their arrival.

Inside the carriage, Oriana sat beside Arlan, who gently caressed her hand.

"Someone was quite bold today," Arlan remarked with an amused smile.

Oriana met his gaze. "Didn't you like it?"

"I did, and now I'm eager to see you surprise me in another bold way," his eyes glinting with meaning. "You have no idea what was going through my mind at that moment."

"And what was that?" she asked softly, her voice intentionally seductive.

He leaned in closer, his eyes locking with hers. "Images of how I'll torment you tonight, how you'll beg for mercy but I won't let you go, how..."