When the Sun Rises

I awoke in a startle, sitting up abruptly. Thoughts of last night came rushing back to me.

I began to panic. What Time is it? How long have I been gone? Where should I be at the Moment? Is anyone looking for me?

Xave appeared at the foot of the bed. A fluffy white towel wrapped lusciously around the lower half of his body. His dark hair still glistening with water from his Refresh.

My body instantly responded as my flesh heated in expectation of his touch. I felt my entire body flush.

"Good morning, my QUEEN. Or should I say Goodnight?"

"What Time is it? How long have I been asleep?"

"Only but an hour, my QUEEN. It is still night."

I Released a Deep sigh, draping my legs over the side of the bed. "I should be getting back."

"Are there tasks to be done between now and the morning?" Xave retorted cooly. His eyes flashed.

"We both Know the Answer to that."

"Then stay a while. We have barely just begun."

"I am playing with fire, Xavier. Is Xave short for Xavier? Oh, Nevermind all that." I shook my head in an effort to clear my rattled Thoughts. Xave smirked silently as he watched.

"It is." He paused. "But you said it yourself : No one Knows about these.. impressive Private Quarters of yours."

"Correct. However, it will not go unnoticed should I forego my Duty as QUEEN. This is merely a Sanctuary of Peace. An Oasis away from the storms. It is my Responsibility still to Lead."

"Then let us ride out tonight's storm together. And maybe tomorrow night." His voice smoldering behind Xave's sensual half-grin.

The Child in me wanted to roll her eyes. I curtly replied, "We need to be well-Rested for our continued Investigations tomorrow."

"And will you Rest well all alone in your Chambers?"

My Mind flashed to the king. I shuddered inwardly at the likelihood of finding yet another shameless prostitute lying naked in our bed. Legs sprawled drunkenly across each other, their scent of sex filling the room. I cringed.

"Stay here, my QUEEN. I will wake you when the sun rises."

"When the sun rises." I conceded.

"Agreed." Xavier smiled. A dangerous smile.

My Heart skipped a beat. I barely Know this man, if Xavier even is his name, and yet I have Given him more of myself than I have ever Given the king. I am in dangerous territory. I do not Know his Intentions or his Reason for Being here with me. All I am certain of is that he holds a Key.

"I must get some Sleep."

"As you wish, my QUEEN."