We moved through the thick jungle path, the sounds of rustling leaves and distant beast calls accompanying each step. The humid air clung to our skin, and the faint scent of wildflowers mixed with something more primal. As we walked in silence, Kirk suddenly spoke, his voice casual yet loaded with intent.
"To be honest, I already knew you're the Princess's lover," he said, his eyes glinting with mischief.
"Huh? How so?" I turned toward him, brows furrowed.
He smirked, tapping the bridge of his broad nose. "I can smell her scent all over you. It clings to you like heat to flame. I was already sure you were her mate the moment I met you."
My mouth parted slightly. "Huh? Then what was the point of the duel?"
He gave a soft chuckle, the low rumble of his voice echoing like a distant growl. "Part of it was curiosity. I wanted to know what kind of man managed to claim a woman like her. The rest… was just for fun."
…Well, I guess that's fair enough.
