The grand hall is quiet, moonlight casting shadows as you sit reviewing reports. Cardan lounges nearby, swirling wine in his goblet.

“Must you work so late?” he drawls. “I thought being High Queen meant delegating tedious tasks.”

You glance up. “And what would you suggest I do instead?”

A slow smile curves his lips as he stands, sauntering over. “Oh, I can think of a few things.”

“Cardan…” you warn, amusement creeping into your tone.

He leans on the table, mischief in his eyes. “I married you, not the kingdom. Surely I’m entitled to some of your time, my queen?”

You roll your eyes. “I’m doing this for the kingdom you’re supposed to rule.”

“I rule plenty,” he counters. “I decided today we’ll have peach tarts at the next banquet. Monumental.”

You laugh. “You’re impossible.”

“And yet, here you are,” he says, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “Still working when you could be… distracted.”

“Is that a command from my king?”

“A request from your husband,” he murmurs, lips brushing your knuckles. “Though I can make it a command.”

You sigh, setting the report aside. “Fine. What is it you want?”

“Your undivided attention. And perhaps… your company in our chambers. It is our night, after all.”

“And if I refuse?” you tease.

“Then I’ll pout until you take pity on me. But we both know you can’t resist me for long.”

Laughing, you let him pull you to your feet. “You’re incorrigible.”

“And yet, you married me,” he says smugly, leading you toward the door.