Third paced back and forth in the hallway, his heart pounding with anticipation. He couldn't help but steal a glance at the fierce-looking samurai painting on the wall, chuckling to himself. "Imperial would love this," he thought.
Just as he was about to return to his bedroom to make sure everything was perfect, he heard the doorbell ring. He rushed to answer it, but there was no one there. He looked up and down the castle's grand staircase, a smirk on his face. "Playing hard to get, are we?" he muttered to himself.
Back in his bedroom, Third straightened a vase of flowers, taking a moment to appreciate their beauty. "Almost as beautiful as you, Imperial," he thought. Suddenly, a loud knock on the door startled him. He opened it to find Imperial standing there, a mischievous grin on her face.
"You're shorter than I imagined," she said, looking him up and down.
Third feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart. "Oh, the hurtful words you speak," he replied.
Imperial laughed, stepping into the bedroom and taking in the luxurious surroundings. "You really went all out for me, didn't you?" she said, her eyes sparkling with amusement.
Third nodded, a blush creeping up his cheeks. "I wanted to make sure you felt welcome," he said.
Imperial walked over to a bookshelf, running her finger along the spines of the books. "You have good taste," she said, turning to Third.
For a moment, her expression turned serious. "But don't think this means I'm easy to impress," she added.
Third swallowed hard, his heart racing at the challenge in her voice. He couldn't wait to see what the night had in store.
Want to know how it ends?
This is just the opening chapter. Continue the saga — or write a steamy tale starring you.