Page 87 of The Naga Lord's Pretty Little Mouse

I whirl before I can stop myself.

Talyra stands in the dim corridor, her emerald scales catching the firelight, dark robes cinched at her slender waist. Her expression is unreadable, assessing.

She is stunning.

Every inch of her screams nobility, confidence, power.

She is here, staring at me like I am some insect she has yet to decide whether to crush.

My fists clench.

"You seem lost, human," she says smoothly, tilting her head slightly. "Should I have someone escort you back to your cage?"

Her words are a slow drag of a blade against my skin, too measured, too calm.

I refuse to let her see my irritation.

I lift my chin. "No need. I can find my way."

Her lips curve into something almost amused.

She takes a step closer.

Until she stands just inches away, looking down at me like I am nothing more than an amusing little plaything.

Like she has already won.

"I was curious about you," she murmurs. "The little human who thinks she belongs here."

I hold her gaze, refusing to step back.

"And?"

Her eyes flick over me, slow, considering.

"And now I see what everyone has been talking about."

The words slither down my spine, coated in something I cannot place.

I keep my voice even. "Did you come here to gawk, or do you actually have a point?"

Her smile sharpens.

"I came to tell you," she says, voice almost kind, "that you will never have him."

A laugh escapes my lips, bitter and sharp. "You think I want him?"

Her expression does not change. "I think you already do."

I force myself not to react.

Not to flinch.

Not to let her see that she is right.

She steps even closer, her voice dropping to something quiet, deadly.

"You are a passing distraction," she murmurs. "A temporary indulgence."

---