Chapter 22: A Forbidden Invitation

The echoes of steel against steel still lingered in the minds of those who had witnessed the duel. Word of Leon's victory had spread through the estate like wildfire, and with it, a shift in the way people looked at him. Some with curiosity, others with hostility.

But one person's gaze weighed heavier than the rest—Selene's.

Leon could still feel the warmth of her presence from their conversation the night before. The way she had let down her guard, even for just a moment, was enough to confirm what he already suspected—she was intrigued by him.

Yet, intrigue was dangerous in a noble's world.

An Unexpected Summons

Leon had barely finished his morning training when a young maid approached him, nervously wringing her hands.

"My lord," she said, bowing slightly. "Lady Selene requests your presence in her chambers."

Leon paused mid-stretch, blinking.

"In her chambers?" he repeated.

The maid nodded, avoiding his gaze. "She asked that you come discreetly… and alone."

Leon smirked. Now, this was interesting.

"Tell her I'll be there."

The maid scurried off, and Leon took a deep breath.

Selene Valenford, the untouchable ice princess, was inviting him into her private chambers.

This could mean one of two things—either she was finally ready to open up… or she was planning to kill him in private.

Either way, he wasn't going to miss it.

A Tense Atmosphere

The corridors leading to Selene's chambers were silent. No guards. No servants.

Suspicious.

Leon reached her door and knocked lightly.

"Enter."

He pushed the door open and stepped inside.

Selene stood by the window, dressed in a loose, flowing nightgown—nothing scandalous, but enough to make his gaze linger.

She turned to face him, her expression as unreadable as ever.

"You came," she said.

Leon leaned against the doorframe. "Would've been rude not to."

She exhaled, then gestured for him to sit. "Close the door."

Leon arched a brow but obeyed. "This feels a little too intimate, Princess. Should I be worried?"

Selene shot him a sharp look. "I didn't invite you here for foolish games."

"Then what did you invite me for?"

She hesitated. Just for a second.

Then, she stepped closer.

"I want to know what drives you, Leon."

Leon's smirk faded slightly. That was not the question he expected.

"You lost everything when you were young," she continued. "Your noble status, your wealth. You should've been broken. But you're not. Why?"

Leon studied her carefully.

He could tell this wasn't just curiosity. This was personal.

"You already know the answer," he said quietly. "I refuse to stay at the bottom."

Selene's lips pressed together. "So it's power you seek?"

Leon tilted his head. "Isn't that what every noble fights for?"

Her eyes flickered with something—understanding, maybe. Or doubt.

She turned away, looking out the window. "I don't know why I called you here," she admitted softly. "Perhaps I wanted to confirm something."

Leon stood, stepping behind her but keeping a respectful distance. "And did you?"

She didn't answer immediately.

Then, in a voice barely above a whisper, she said, "You're dangerous, Leon."

He chuckled. "And yet, you keep inviting me closer."

She turned her head slightly, her gaze locking onto his. For once, there was no coldness—just undeniable tension.

"You should leave," she said.

Leon smirked but didn't argue. "As you wish, Princess."

As he reached for the door, she spoke again.

"Leon."

He paused, glancing over his shoulder.

She hesitated before saying, "Don't make me regret trusting you."

Leon's smirk softened. "I wouldn't dream of it."

And with that, he stepped out, leaving Selene standing alone in the dim candlelight—her thoughts more conflicted than ever.