I tilted my head, my golden eyes shimmering. The heat in my blood hadn't faded; it had settled into a comfortable, predatory hum.
"The crown is mine, Maegel. I thought we established that when I made you swear yourself to me in front of your father's court and the kingdom's nobles," I reminded him. "As for the rest… does it really matter what I am? Whether I'm a snake, a demon, or a 'Miracle,' the result is the same. I am the female you cannot live without."
He let out a shuddering breath, his hands sliding up to cup my throat. His touch was light, as if he feared I might evaporate if he pressed too hard.
"You are right," he whispered. "It doesn't matter. You are Lyssa. And tonight, the world learned that to touch you is to invite death."
I smiled—a real one, sharp and victorious.
"Good."
Maegel's grip tightened, his hands moving from my throat to my back, pulling me flush against the heat of his chest.
