Page 110 of Secrets of Avalon

The older of Melinda’s two maids steps forward from Kellan’s side. “Can we help, your majesty? We could start a bath? Or pick out clothing for the evening meal?”

I glance at her maids and back to the woman in my arms. Melinda's face is pale, her eyes shadowed with lingering fear. But there's a spark of resilience there too, and a strength that never fails to amaze me. Her hair, tousled from sleep and struggle, frames her face like a dark halo. Even now, shaken and vulnerable, she's breathtaking.

"What would you prefer, my love?" I ask, my voice softening as I drink in the sight of her.

A bath, she answers in my mind.

I give her a smile and look back to the maids. “She would like a bath first.”

“Yes, your majesty. Right away.”

As the maids hurry out of the room, I keep my attention focused on Melinda, watching her face for any signs of distress. She seems calmer now, but I can still her unsettledness keeps me tense.

Moments later, the maids return with a tall, slender Fae man I recognize as my manservant, Baylin. Without a word, he moves to the corner of the bedroom where the large copper tub stands. With a graceful wave of his hand, water begins to pour from an ornate spout, quickly filling the tub.

Melinda's eyes widen as she watches. "Hawke, how...?"

I smile, relieved to see a spark of curiosity replacing the fear in her eyes. "Fae magick," I explain softly. "Everything in the house can be controlled with Fae magick. Your maids are Drakonii, so they are unable to access the plumbing system."

As if on cue, Baylin makes another subtle gesture and steam begins to rise from the tub. The maids add a few drops of scented oil, and pour something white and creamy into the bath. The fragrances fill the air. creating a soothing ambiance.

"That's incredible," Melinda breathes, her gaze fixed on the steaming tub. "It smells amazing."

I press a gentle kiss to her temple. “Good. I’m glad.”

Baylin bows and exits the bedroom, closing the door behind him. The maids, Elen and Lydia, spring into action. Elen moves to a carved armoire, selecting a soft robe and placing it near the tub. Lydia arranges an array of fragrant oils and soaps on a small table within arm's reach. Their movements are efficient, almost choreographed, as they prepare the bath area without a word.

“You may go too, I will help her bathe.”

"Yes, your majesty," they echo, quickly retreating. As the door closes, a wave of relief washes over me. Finally, we're alone again.

I look down at Melinda, drinking in the sight of her. "How do you feel? Ready?"

"That bath is calling my name," she says, a smile spreading across her face. She taps my arm, signaling her desire to move.

For a moment, I tighten my hold, reluctant to let her go. The primal part of me wants to keep her close, safe in my arms, but I release my hold on her, allowing her to slither from my grasp.

As Melinda stands, the sheet I’d covered her with falls away, and my breath catches in my throat. By the gods, she is so beautiful. Her curves are soft and inviting, her skin like moonlight made flesh. My eyes trace the graceful line of her neck, down to the gentle swell of her breasts, the subtle dip of her waist, the flare of her hips. Every inch of her is perfection.

But it's more than just her physical beauty that captivates me. It's the strength in her stance, even after everything she's been through. The intelligence that shines in her eyes. The kindness in her smile. I'm in awe of her, body and soul.

My heart swells with a love so profound it almost hurts. This remarkable woman is mine, as I am hers. Our bond pulses between us, a constant reminder of our connection.

"You're staring," Melinda says with a hint of amusement in her voice.

I smile, unapologetic. "Can you blame me? You're the most beautiful thing I've ever seen."

A blush colors her cheeks, and I resist the urge to pull her back into my arms. Instead, I stand and offer her my hand. "Let's get you to that bath, my love."

I walk her over to the tub, but before I help her climb in I lean down and brush my mouth over the top of one of her breasts. And then the other. “You taste so good, too,” I say, almost purring.

“We’re going to waste this amazing bath water if you keep doing that.” She giggles and steps closer to the bathtub. “Help me in.”

I glance over at the cloudy water. “My baths don’t usually look like that. The water looks dirty already.”

She shakes her head. "It's milk. It's so good for the skin." Melinda holds out her hand, and I take it, helping her balance as she steps into the deep tub.

I watch her settle into the milky water, admiring the way it caresses her skin. She looks up at me, her eyes sparkling with invitation. "Join me?" she asks, her voice soft and alluring.

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