Chapter 14: His Mistress Wears Red
Evelyn returned at dawn.
Bryant was waiting.
Not in the shadows.
Not seated.
But standing in the hall, coat unbuttoned, jaw tight, hands clenched.
"You disobeyed me," he said.
"I made a choice."
"You went to him."
"I survived him."
Silence stretched like a blade.
She moved to pass him.
He blocked her path.
"Tell me what he said."
"Tell me why you care."
His breath came hard.
Low.
Dangerous.
"You're mine."
"No," Evelyn said, lifting her eyes to his. "I'm here. That doesn't mean I'm yours."
That stopped him.
Not because it was a lie.
But because it wasn't.
Then—
heels clicked on the marble.
A soft, sultry voice followed.
"Are we interrupting?"
Evelyn turned—
And saw her.
Tall. Red-haired. Wrapped in satin and smugness.
Her dress clung like it was sewn on. Her scent was roses and wine.
She didn't bother to hide the way she looked at Bryant.
Or the way she looked at Evelyn—like she was something beneath her shoes.
Bryant didn't introduce her.
Didn't have to.
Evelyn already knew.
Mistress.
The one he used to drown the things he didn't want to feel.
"I didn't realize the palace had started collecting strays," the woman said sweetly.
Evelyn smiled.
Just a little.
"Better a stray than a leash."
The air tightened.
Even Bryant looked startled.
The woman's eyes narrowed.
She stepped closer—too close.
But Evelyn didn't back down.
Instead, she turned to Bryant.
Voice calm. Detached.
"Since we're throwing loyalty out the window, maybe I'll let Damon dress me again."
His hand shot out—
Not to hit.
Not to drag.
But to grab her waist—tight enough that the Lilian
"Leave," Bryant said over his shoulder, to the woman.
"But—"
"I said leave."
She did.
But not before throwing Evelyn a look soaked in venom.
Bryant waited until her heels disappeared into the corridor—
Then turned back.
"I told you not to test me."
"And I warned you I don't kneel for kings who can't decide where to put their mouth."
He said nothing.
Just slammed her back against the wall, breath hot against her neck.
This wasn't gentle.
Wasn't careful.
But he didn't kiss her.
Not yet.
He stared at her mouth—
Then pulled back like he hated himself.
"You'll be the end of me," he whispered.
Evelyn smiled.
"I know."
(End of Chapter 14)