A dangerous arrangement

The library felt emptier after Seraphina left.

Yet, her presence lingered—like a ghost, like a scent that wouldn't fade.

Henry exhaled sharply, running a hand through his hair. His heart was still beating faster than it should have been.

Seraphina's words echoed in his mind.

"There are women in this world who will kill to claim you."

He had no reason to doubt her.

And yet…

It was hard to tell whether Seraphina herself was part of the danger or the only thing keeping him safe.

Maybe both.

Henry turned his attention back to the book, but thse words blurred together. The weight of everything pressed against his mind. The disappearance of men. The fact that he was the only one. The power struggles he knew nothing about.

The way Seraphina's breath had felt against his skin.

Henry clenched his jaw. He needed a distraction.

---

An Unexpected Invitation

By the time Henry returned to his chambers, the sun had begun its slow descent, casting golden hues through the tall windows.

To his surprise, Lillian was already there, standing stiffly beside his bed, her hands clasped together.

Her face was still tinged with the same embarrassment as this morning, and she practically refused to meet his eyes.

Henry sighed. "Lillian, you don't have to act so awkward."

She flinched slightly. "I—I deeply apologize again for this morning, my lord. It was… improper of me."

Henry groaned, rubbing his temples. "Can we please just forget about that?"

Lillian hesitated. "If… if that is your wish, my lord."

Henry gave her a tired look. "Henry. Just call me Henry."

Lillian's face turned pink. "I couldn't possibly—!"

He sighed. "Fine." Changing the subject seemed like the best option. "Did you need something?"

Lillian blinked as if remembering something important. "Oh! Yes!" She straightened, pulling a sealed letter from her pocket. "You've been summoned by Lady Seraphina for a private dinner."

Henry raised a brow. "A private dinner?"

Lillian nodded. "It is a rare honor, my lord. Lady Seraphina rarely invites anyone to dine with her alone."

Henry didn't like the way she said that.

It made it sound like Seraphina had intentions.

He exhaled. "And if I refuse?"

Lillian paled slightly. "I… do not think that would be wise."

Of course it wouldn't.

Henry took the letter, breaking the seal and unfolding the parchment.

The message was brief.

"Join me for dinner tonight. Wear something appropriate."

No signature.

Just a demand.

Henry sighed. "She really likes giving orders, doesn't she?"

Lillian looked panicked. "Please don't say that where anyone can hear—!"

Henry waved her off. "Relax, I'm not an idiot. I'll go."

Lillian exhaled in relief. "Then… shall I prepare an outfit for you, my lord?"

Henry stared at her. "Just Henry."

Lillian's expression wavered. "…My lord Henry?"

Henry groaned. "Close enough."

---

A Dangerous Dinner

When Henry arrived at Seraphina's private dining hall, he was immediately struck by how… intimate the setting was.

A long, lavish table stretched before him, but only two places were set—one at the head, and one beside it. Candles flickered softly, casting warm, golden light across the dark wood. The scent of rich, spiced food filled the air.

Seraphina was already seated, her violet eyes watching him as he entered.

She looked different tonight.

Gone was the elaborate military uniform. Instead, she wore a deep crimson dress, fitted perfectly to her figure, with sleeves that draped elegantly off her shoulders. Her hair, usually tied back, was looser now, cascading in soft waves.

Henry hesitated.

This… felt like something else.

Something far more dangerous than a simple dinner.

Seraphina smirked. "You're staring."

Henry blinked. "You're… dressed differently."

Her smirk deepened. "Would you prefer I dressed like a warlord for our private meal?"

Henry coughed. "I didn't say that."

Seraphina chuckled. "Sit, Henry."

He did, sliding into the chair beside hers.

The food was already served—an assortment of meats, fruits, and dishes Henry couldn't name. It smelled amazing.

But he didn't reach for anything.

Not yet.

Seraphina picked up her wine glass, swirling the dark liquid inside. "You're being cautious."

Henry leaned back slightly. "Can you blame me?"

Seraphina's eyes gleamed. "No. Not at all."

She took a sip, then gestured to the food. "Eat. If I wanted to poison you, I would have done it long before now."

Henry raised a brow. "That's… comforting."

Still, he hesitated for only a moment longer before taking a bite.

The food was incredible. Rich, flavorful, unlike anything he'd ever had before.

Seraphina watched him. "Good?"

Henry nodded, swallowing. "Yeah. I've gotta admit, I didn't expect medieval fantasy food to be this good."

Seraphina tilted her head. "Medieval… fantasy?"

Henry stiffened slightly. "Uh… never mind."

Seraphina's smirk returned. "You really are from another world, aren't you?"

Henry hesitated. "You don't sound surprised."

Seraphina leaned closer, resting her chin on her hand. "I told you, Henry. You are impossible. I do not need to know the how to understand that much."

Henry exhaled. "Then what do you want from me?"

Seraphina was silent for a moment. Then, slowly, she smiled.

"A deal."

Henry's stomach twisted. "A deal?"

Seraphina nodded. "You need protection. And I am the only one powerful enough to provide it."

Henry frowned. "And in return?"

Seraphina's gaze darkened. "You stay with me."

Henry's throat felt dry.

That was it?

No catch? No hidden clause?

Just… staying by her side?

He didn't trust it.

Not for a second.

Seraphina reached out, brushing her fingers against his wrist. The touch was light, but deliberate.

"You don't have to answer now," she murmured. "But think about it."

Henry swallowed. "You make it sound like I have a choice."

Seraphina chuckled, drawing back. "Oh, Henry…"

Her eyes gleamed.

"You always have a choice."

The way she said it sent a shiver down his spine.

Because it didn't sound like a promise.

It sounded like a challenge.

And Henry wasn't sure he was ready for whatever game Seraphina was playing.

But one thing was certain.

He had stepped into it, whether he wanted to or not.

---

To Be Continued…