Cillian is trapped in his small village by his step-uncle, who has usurped Cillian’s inheritance and squandered it on his own two sons. Cillian earns his own living, and does all the family's chores, whlie his step-cousins do nothing. Then Queen Beyta arrives, looking to have Cillian repair Princess Itha's broken glass slipper. A party celebrating the king’s arrival is in two days, and Cillian gets to work. But, the afternoon before the party, Cillian's family overpowers him and locks him in the dungeon so that they might receive the king--and any blessings he might bestow. The queen comes to his rescue, and introduces him at court to the King Malo, Princess Itha, and Prince Pari. The princess wants to show Cillian her "gratitude," but the prince intervenes and claims Cillian for himself. The prince's gratitude, however, isn't anything Cillian is interested in. King Malo intervenes and Cillian fears more punishment, so it comes as a pleasant surprise when he's led to the king's bed. Soon, though, Malo must return to the castle, and Cillian to his village. He once again finds himself at the mercy of his step-uncle and cousins again. Will he ever see Malo again? Was their interlude just a game to the king or something more?

The Glass Slipper

Cillian realized he might have to appeal to the king for additional protection or assurances.


“I’ll be fine,” Cillian said, the only thing he could think of to say. He hoped Pepys couldn’t see the fear in his eyes. He would not let his step-uncle know how much his words had shaken Cillian.


That night, Cillian and Malo lay in each other’s arms, on top of thick covers, dripping with sweat. The open windows did nothing to cool the room but they didn’t seem to notice the oppressive heat. A single candle lit the room from the opposite corner from the bed.


Cillian rested his head on Malo’s shoulder and toyed with the king’s cock.


“I don’t think I can go any more now, Cillian,” Malo said, chuckling. “Although I would like to make love you all night long.”


Cillian smiled. “I’m just glad I get to have you for myself for a while.” His mind raced, trying to decide the best way to address the fears Pepys had elicited in him earlier.


Chapter 17