Chapter 43

Amelia

My cheeks blaze bright red, and I quickly turn away from Lily, burying my face in Nickolas’s chest. He readily accommodates me, wrapping his arm around my body. I’ve never felt more embarrassed in my life than I do in this moment. I also notice that his shirt is now untucked, likely an attempt to conceal the damp patch on his pants caused by my arousal.

“It was nice having you over for dinner, Your Majesty,” Lily’s voice breaks the tense silence.

Nickolas doesn’t say anything, so I assume he nods. He stands and gently drops me on the floor. I can feel the heat rising in my cheeks as I avoid meeting Eric and Lily’s eyes.

Nickolas leads the way to the front door, his hand firmly clasping mine. As we step out of their door, the thought crosses my mind: what did I do to deserve punishment? I’d love to ask him as we walk back to the castle in complete silence, but I know better than to do so.

We step into the castle’s grand foyer, and the impo