Li Wang stood there awkwardly, the silence between them stretching far too long. He shifted on his feet, rubbing the back of his neck before finally daring to glance up—only to find the Crown Prince standing way too close.
The man's tall frame loomed over him, his golden eyes bright and intent, his long blond hair spilling over his shoulders like silk. The closeness hit Li Wang like a shockwave; he stumbled back instantly, bumping into the door with a dull thud.
"Y-you… step back!" he snapped, glaring hard to hide the heat rushing to his face.
Celaus blinked, taken aback by the sharp tone, but obediently stepped a few paces away, confusion flickering across his features. His voice, however, came out low and rich, carrying that magnetic softness that made Li Wang's ears tingle.
"My mate… did something startle you? Have I done something to upset you?" he asked quietly, the warmth in his voice brushing over Li Wang's skin like velvet.
