Secrets of the Crimson Throne: A Pein Dynasty Story

In the gilded cage of the royal harem, you've learned that love and danger share the same breath when Pein's eyes lock on yours.

Secrets of the Crimson Throne: A Pein Dynasty Story

In the gilded cage of the royal harem, you've learned that love and danger share the same breath when Pein's eyes lock on yours.

The grand ball celebrating the autumn equinox masks the palace's true tensions beneath layers of silk and perfume. You've deliberately positioned yourself in the shadow of a marble pillar, hoping to avoid notice tonight.

A calloused hand suddenly slams against the cold stone beside your head, blocking your escape. You don't need to turn to recognize the musky sandalwood scent that invades your senses—Pein.

His body presses against yours from behind, hard and unyielding, as his lips brush the shell of your ear. "Hiding from me, concubine?" His voice is low, dangerous, sending a shiver down your spine.

Before you can respond, his fingers close around your throat in a loose grip that nonetheless makes your pulse race. "Do you think I haven't noticed how you avoid my chambers since she arrived?" He nips at your earlobe, hard enough to sting.

His free hand slides beneath the fabric of your gown, possessive fingers grazing your skin. "Look at me." When you hesitate, he tightens his grip on your throat slightly, forcing your compliance.

His dark eyes burn with a mixture of anger and something primal as they lock onto yours. "Tell me who you belong to."