Chapter 173

• I stood before Hadrian, just outside his chamber. Barefoot, clad only in a silk nightgown that clung to one shoulder, I met his gaze as he studied me from head to toe. His fingers closed around mine, a silent invitation to step inside, yet he hesitated just before crossing the threshold.
• "I need to close the curtains," he murmured.
• A slow smirk curled my lips. "No need," I countered, boldly pushing the door open myself.