Page 84 of A Broken Throne of Bronze

I suck in a breath.

Hanging from a delicate gold chain is a beautiful rose. It’s made from a mix of gold and bronze metal strands that have been twisted and intertwined to form the rosebud.

“It’s from His Highness,” Tiffy tells me, with a knowing look on her face.

I touch my fingers to the rose. Warmth spreads through my chest.

I stand. Gently turning me around so my back faces the larger mirror, Tiffy hands me a handheld one to hold in front of my face. When I do, I get a full view of the back of my head. Tiffy has truly outdone herself—multiple smaller braids join into one large braid that wraps around my head, giving the illusion of a crown, framed by small circular twists of hair pinned underneath.

“Thank you,” I tell her earnestly.

“You’re welcome.” Tiffy bows her head. “Enjoy dinner with His Highness.”

I smile, and heat rushes to my cheeks. “I will.”

Tiffy and the other two ladies’ maids wait for me to leave my chamber first. They follow me out and close the door behind them.

Careful of my skirts, I glide through the corridor and down the main staircase. When I turn the corner toward the great hall, my heart leaps into my throat.

Dinner with Viridian is nothing unusual. It’s our daily routine.

But after our kiss in the council chamber earlier, this dinner feels different. It feels new and wonderful and exhilarating. As if I were a bird, soaring across the skies with the wind blowing between my feathers.

Pausing, I approach the double doors that lead into the great hall. I close my eyes for a moment and take a deep breath before pushing them open.

I see Viridian instantly.

Sitting in his usual spot, he’s replaced his usual attire with a fine, high-collared jacket the color of bronze, with sleeves lined with bronze metal. He wears it buttoned up, save for the top two buttons. His pants are made of the same material and metal lining, and his loose black hair has been combed back away from his face.

I drag my eyes up to his face, only to see his amber stare roaming my body.

His focus slowly trails up my figure, pausing at my waist, and then my breasts, before making its way up to my gaze.

I relish the feeling of his hungry stare on me. It only makes me want him closer.

He stands and crosses the length of the table to reach me. Then, he takes my hand and raises it to his mouth, pressing his lips to it.

“You look…” his voice trails off. “Absolutely stunning.”

“And you…” I drink him in again, not bothering to hide my approval. “You clean up well.”

“I’m glad you approve.”

Still looking at me, he licks his lips. He glances at the table, as if he were just remembering why we were here.

He strides to my chair and pulls it out for me. “My lady.”

Cheeks warm, I sit. “Thank you.”

“Of course.” Viridian lingers for a moment, before taking his seat across the table from me.

As if on cue, the servants arrive with the first course and place it before us. It’s a clear broth, with sliced mushrooms and topped with a delicate herb garnish.

Viridian waits for me to pick up his spoon, mirroring my movements.

I taste my soup, all while holding his gaze.

“So…” I clear my throat. Nerves tighten the muscles around my vocal cords.

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