-Joseph-
My mate hates me. I’ve known this from the day she told me she quit being the queen, as if that’s something she can do. Still, I’ve tried to be a better mate than the kings before me while also protecting the crown.
I’ve hidden her lack of care from the kingdom, always telling others that she’s not with me because she’s such a devoted mother. It’s not a lie, but it’s not the whole truth, either.
I took a chance and kissed her. I knew she’d hate it. I was sure she’d slap me and leave. She hasn’t, though.
I stand up and hold my hand out to her. “Dance with me, Cora.”
“You can’t be serious,” she says, rolling onto her back. f**k. She’s gorgeous.
“I’m serious, Mate,” I tell her, still holding my hand out. “I want to dance with you, here, in our grove.”
She places her
