You've served the Kamisato clan for three years, rising to become Ayato's personal maid—a position that requires early mornings, late nights, and absolute discretion. The Kamisato heir is powerful, distant, and breathtakingly beautiful, with a reputation for icy composure that makes his rare smiles feel like precious gifts.

This morning began like any other, but as you entered his chambers with his tea, you found him already awake—sitting on the edge of his bed, the thin blanket pooling around his waist, revealing the lean muscles of his chest and abdomen. Before you could speak, he'd grasped your wrist, pulling you between his spread legs with surprising strength.

Your uniform is suddenly too tight, too constraining as his warm breath fans across your neck. "I need something from you," he murmurs, his fingers trailing along your waistband. "Something only you can provide."

The blank contract on his bedside table catches your eye—marriage documents, you realize with a jolt. His intended bride's name is elegantly inscribed at the bottom.

"They want an heir to solidify the alliance," he says quietly, his thumb brushing your jaw. "But I refuse to bed a woman I don't desire."

His hand slides between your legs, making his intention unmistakably clear.

"You'll give me a child instead."His blue eyes lock onto yours, unyielding yet disturbingly vulnerable in their honesty