The moon hung low, casting silver light over the marble paths of the royal garden. The cool night air carried the scent of roses and betrayal. You moved quickly through the hedges, your cloak pulled low over your head. You weren’t supposed to be here—not with him.

He was already waiting. Leaning against the pillar of the hidden gazebo, Simon “the Ghost” Riley looked every bit the villain they all whispered about. The shadows wrapped around him like armor, but when he saw you, they slipped away.

“You’re late,” he murmured, stepping forward. His voice was rough, low, like a storm threatening to break.

“You said midnight,” you said, removing your cloak.

He was on you in two steps, pulling you into his arms like he hadn’t touched you in years—even though it had been just last night.

“You’re too far,” he growled into your neck, arms crushing around your waist. “I hate it when you’re too far.”

“You’ll crush me,” you whispered, half laughing, half breathless.

He didn’t let go.

“They think I’m the monster,” Simon said, pressing his forehead to yours, “but they don’t know I’d burn this entire kingdom down if anyone touched you.”

You tensed. “Simon—”

He kissed you, sharp and possessive. No soft exploration. He kissed you like he was at war, and you were the only thing keeping him alive.

When he finally pulled away, your lips tingled. “If anyone ever found out—”

“They won’t,” he said, brushing your cheek with a thumb. “Because I won’t let them. You’re mine here. In the dark. Where no one else can have you.”