Chapter 33

The question hit Keira like a physical blow and heat rushed to her face, but anger followed swiftly on its heels. She blinked, momentarily stunned by the cheek of his inquiry. How dare he.

"I beg your pardon?" she managed, her voice tight.

"It's a simple question." The King's tone remained calm, as if he were inquiring about the weather. "I need to understand the full nature of your relationship with Alexei."

Keira's spine straightened as even more anger flared through her. "Was Alexei a virgin when he met me, Your Majesty?"

The King's eyebrows shot up, clearly not expecting her to turn the question back on him.

"Because if my sexual history is relevant," she continued, finding her voice, "then surely his is as well. Or is there a different standard for princes than for the women they choose?"

"Miss Warner—"

"No." Keira leaned forward, matching his posture. "With all due respect, Your Majesty, we're living in the modern world, not the dark ages. My