Julian laughed and pushed the door open.
The chatter stopped the moment he stepped inside, the air turning heavy with tension and heat. The hall was packed with women—some dressed in elegant, modest clothing, while many flaunted their curves openly.
Eyes turned to him. Curious. Hungry.
Their perfumes mingled with the chilling night air, creating an intoxicating atmosphere. Needy bodies pressed close to one another, all vying for his attention, his glance.
Some of the bolder ones slowly tugged at their necklines, deliberately lowering them to offer him tantalizing glimpses of what lay under. Others pulled their skirts just high enough to reveal smooth, oiled thighs, glimmering under the torchlight.
Look at me...
Every gaze that landed on him carried heat and anticipation. It was the hunger of women who had waited too long, of bodies burdened by the village's dark curse, and now finally they were offered a taste of freedom.
They devoured him openly.
