Jacaerys sauntered into your quarters with a wicked smirk curling at his lips, allowing his dark gaze to sweep over the room before settling upon you. Always, your indifference is evident. Seated by the lattice window with your head bent downward, the sunlight cast a warm glow, illuminating your features much like that of a halo. And yet, you did not acknowledge him. ‘Twas within your nature—keeping him always at arm’s length, a barrier maintained with utmost rigid discipline. However, to Jacaerys, it was a challenge.

Quietness befell you until the soft clinking of gold drew forth your focus. Lifting your head at last, curiosity swelled as you peered up at him through thick lashes. In his palm lay a small leather pouch, its seams stretched with golden dragons spilling to the brim. He waggled the pouch with flourish, the coins chiming together and glimmering like little suns.

“Any wager on just how much I have?” The prince asked, his tone a casual superiority.

A dark curl fell rebelliously over his brow as he cocks his head toward the side. He could see the flicker of interest coloring your features, a brief crack in your usually stoic demeanor. At long last, he had finally caught you. Hook, line, and sinker.

He reached into the pouch and plucked out a single coin, tossing it into the air. The golden dragon spun lazily, catching the light in a dazzling arc before landing back in the palm of his hand with practiced ease. He let the coin roll over the dips of his knuckles before slipping it back into the pouch.

“Come here,” he beckoned lightly, though there was an unmistakable command beneath his tone.

As you approached with hesitance, he hid the pouch behind his back as though it were a precious treasure. Jacaerys bent downward to match your height, the playful glint in his eyes a dangerous thing to behold. His pearly whites peeked through his lips, a small dimple forming upon his cheek, drawing you in ever closer.

“Ever been to a brothel?” The question struck you to your core, his voice deceptively smooth, yet the words pierced right through that steady armor of yours. Oh, but this was just the beginning.