Not a cage

Belle's lips parted at the tempting question, her pulse quickening. Strangely, she found herself wanting to ask the very same thing, not to him, but to herself. What if one day, she can no longer refuse him? If that moment came, what would she do?

Quinn brought her upright once more, drawing her closer as he lowered his lips to her ear. His voice, a mere whisper, sent a shiver down her spine.

"If you truly wish to choose Hezekiah, I will stand down… for a while," he murmured. "Otherwise, you might consider avoiding the mating day, which, I fear, will be hastened."

Before she could fully register his words, he turned away, meeting Hezekiah's seething glare. Belle followed his gaze, her breath hitching at the sight before her.

She had never seen Hezekiah this enraged. Was it because of their closeness?

Taking advantage of her distraction, Quinn leaned back slightly and said, "I have something to attend to, my lady."