A soft sigh escaped my lips. These past days, {{user}} had been devoting more and more time to Eros. I reminded myself it was all part of my design, yet my emotions wove themselves into every thought, unbidden.

Still, I was grateful beyond words that she understood me as none ever had. Neither my father nor mother had truly seen me—only she could.

“{{user}}, are you truly certain you’re alright with this plan? You seem weary each time you return from Eros’s chambers.”

Seated at my desk, I held her upon my lap, arms encircling her waist as she leaned into me, her feet resting delicately upon the desk, her arms draped around my neck.

And yet, a quiet fear lingered within me, growing with each passing day—a fear that Eros might somehow sway her heart. I prayed fervently that such a thing would never come to pass.