Chapter 60: A Crown Stained in Crimson
Ariana stepped out of the bathroom, her hair slightly damp and wrapped in a towel. She wore a sleeveless, silk, milk-colored gown. Evening had already fallen, and she figured she might sleep early tonight.
If she and Zavren decided to go for a night walk—which was very possible—she could always change again, though she doubted it. Quietly, she walked toward the mirror and sat on the soft stool.
Her gaze shifted to Zavren. His hands were covering his eyes and forehead as he lay on the bed, as if lost in deep thought. He must not have noticed her, she thought. Then again, she often found herself wondering what went on in his mind—how he could hold so much inside without anyone sensing a thing. It was like he had the power to either reveal or completely hide his emotions. And he always chose the latter. He never showed them.
Ariana turned her gaze back to the mirror, silently studying her reflection. A drop of water rolled from her damp hair, trailing down her neck and onto her back. She shivered slightly, unprepared for the cold sensation. It was like a gentle reminder, nudging her to finish towel-drying her hair and stay focused before she caught a cold.
Just as she reached to towel-dry her hair, a hand held her in place. Her eyes flicked up to the mirror, locking with Zavren’s gaze.
Her heart skipped.
"Let me do it, my wife," he said, his voice deep and clear.
Her eyes widened in surprise.
H..how had he... and was he serious? The Alpha King wanted to towel-dry her hair?
"Don’t you want me to do it?" Zavren asked, his eyes darkening slightly.
Only then did Ariana realize her hands were still raised, shielding her hair from his. She hesitated before slowly dropping them, gently releasing her grip.