Page 72 of Shadowed Fate

My lips part. "What is it?"

"Wine." He pours two glasses, mine much smaller than his. "Careful, it's potent."

Fae wine. I take a sip, and it's like drinking starlight. Warmth spreads through me, loosening my muscles. Another sip, and the room softens at the edges.

"Wow, this is strong stuff." I look up at Callen, and see amusement in his eyes.

We eat dessert, tiny little chocolate truffles with ganache centers infused with flavors of champagne and hazelnut, and dusted with gold.

And we talk.

Or more accurately, I talk. Callen leans back and lets me ramble on for the better part of an hour.

I try to pour myself more wine and he takes the bottle from me, then with a snap of his fingers everything is gone— table and all.

I pout, and he laughs.

"You're even more adorable when you let your guard down, you know."

"Shut up," I say, but I'm smiling.

He leans closer. "Make me."

My heart races. I grab his shirt, pulling him to me. Our lips meet, and the heady feeling makes me want more. His tongue explores my mouth, tasting of wine and chocolate.

Callen breaks the kiss, breathing heavily. “Pace yourself, darling.”

"Bed. Now."

He lifts me effortlessly, laying me on the soft sheets. He arches an eyebrow questioningly, and I nod in answer. His fingers make quick work of my clothes, leaving me bare and trembling. Satisfaction swells in my chest as I see his intake of breath.

"Touch me," I whisper, boldly arching towards him.

"So demanding," he teases, trailing a finger down my body. "What if I don't?"

I growl, frustrated. "Then you can get out."

“My, my, the little mouse is getting bolder.” His index finger circles my belly button, then pulls away.

“Fucker.”

Callen's eyes darken. "Careful, little one. I am a prince, after all."

“Like I said, not my prince.”

“Insubordination will be punished.”

“Is that a threat—prince?” I mock with a smile that lets him know I’m ready to play this game. More than ready.

“Oh my darling, it’s a warning.” Callen’s lips curl up in a deadly smile. “And you only get one.” In a swift, fluid motion he has me flipped onto my belly.

"You wouldn't dare—"

The sharp crack of his hand on my ass cuts me off. I gasp, heat blooming where he struck.

"You were saying?" Callen's voice is dangerous.

My thoughts are a jumble of 'oh fuck' and 'more please.' I squirm, desperate for friction.

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