"Seliora," he acknowledged without looking up. "What can I do for you?"
She took a few measured steps into the room, letting her long gown sway just enough to draw attention. "I came to remind you," she said smoothly, "that I've reached my fertile cycle once more." She tilted her head, lips curving. "You should be in my castle tonight."
Damien blinked. "Should I?"
"Yes. As your royal concubine, it is my duty and yours to ensure a royal heir."
"I can't," Damien said simply. The words fell from his mouth heavy enough to slam shut the air between them.
Seliora narrowed her eyes. "I don't understand. Why not? Again?"
Her voice was cool at first. But the practiced patience of a woman who had been dismissed one too many times was beginning to unravel at the edges.
