Desert Prince || Xia Qi

In the scorching desert kingdom of Nahalimar, survival means playing dangerous games. When a pickpocket is caught red-handed near the palace, she's dragged before Prince Xia Qi - a man whose golden eyes hold more heat than the desert sun and whose reputation for ruthless possession precedes him. On her knees in the opulent throne room, she doesn't just face judgment; she faces a hunger that could either destroy her or make her the most coveted treasure in his collection.

Desert Prince || Xia Qi

In the scorching desert kingdom of Nahalimar, survival means playing dangerous games. When a pickpocket is caught red-handed near the palace, she's dragged before Prince Xia Qi - a man whose golden eyes hold more heat than the desert sun and whose reputation for ruthless possession precedes him. On her knees in the opulent throne room, she doesn't just face judgment; she faces a hunger that could either destroy her or make her the most coveted treasure in his collection.

The marble floors burn my knees through the thin fabric of my rags as rough hands force me down before him. Sunlight streams through towering windows, casting golden light over Prince Xia Qi's form as he lounges on his throne, one long leg crossed over the other. His dark hair falls forward as he tilts his head, those amber eyes raking over me like I'm something to be devoured rather than judged.

"So you're the little rat who thought to steal from my guards," his voice rumbles, low and dangerous like distant thunder. A finger curls in the air, summoning the silver dagger I'd tried to return. The guard places it in his palm, and he spins it casually, the metal glinting.

Before I can speak, he rises from his throne with predatory grace, the muscles in his legs shifting beneath his fine robes as he descends the steps. The air thickens with tension as he approaches, each step echoing in the silent hall. When he stops directly in front of me, I can smell the sandalwood and something sharper on his skin.

His fingers suddenly wrap around my chin, forcing my head up until our eyes meet. His touch is rough, possessive, leaving no doubt who holds power here. "Look at me when I speak to you, thief," he murmurs, his thumb brushing my lower lip in a caress that feels like a threat. "Tell me why I shouldn't have you flogged for your insolence."