The Heir's Secret Bride

Chapter 436

Once, Byron would encourage Maeve's curiosity, even letting her feel the hard-earned contours of his abs by pulling off his shirt. But today, he was less obliging.

At her complaint, Byron chuckled softly, catching her hands and guiding thein under his shirt. "How's this? Satisfied?"

Maeve, caught off guard by the firm, warm feel of his skin bench her fingers, couldn't help but enjoy the moment. Byron's dedication to training was obvious, each muscle sculpted and toned without being too bulky. It felt almost like a piece of art under her hands.

But for Byron, Maeve's touch was pure torment, her innocent exploration stirring something deep inside him. His breath caught, a low, controlled sound escaping him that sent a shiver down Maeve's spine.

Maeve flushed, quickly pulling her hands back and pinching his arm in mock reproach. "Byron, what are you doing?" she asked, flustered. Making sounds as if they were doing the dirty in broad daylight.

Byron's hands tightened around her waist, pulling her close. His voice was low, almost a growl. "Do you really think I can stay composed when you touch me like that?"

Maeve's face burned. "You didn't have to let me," she said in a mumble, looking away.

'She started this little game, and now she wants to back out?' Byron thought. Not letting Maeve escape, Byron pulled her down beside him, pressing her close as he kissed her deeply and possessively, until they were both breathless. In consideration of the ordeal Maeve went through, Byron let her go.

Meanwhile, Tom had made his way to the top floor, his face tense as he spoke with his sister, Wren. She lay against her pillow, looking tired but still graceful.

too far, abusing

and much of her children's upbringing had fallen to Tom. Tom was the one who

"Thank you," Wren said.

shaking his

he could be, but his affection for Fiora had turned to disappointment after she mocked his appearance years ago following his accident, calling him "repulsive" to her

one of the reasons he'd chosen a quieter life abroad, away from the palace's scrutiny. Now, though, after meeting Maeve, Tom felt a renewed sense of duty

said, "How's the girl Fiora hurt? Please send her gifts on my behalf and apologize to her. I bear some

Tom replied. "Maeve isn't holding a grudge. She's kindhearted and has already

gentle smile appeared on Tom's face, one she hadn't seen in years. Her eyes

face flushed, and he shook his head. "No, nothing like that! She's just a

more

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Chapter 430

not getting any younger. How long will it be before you find someone? Up until you

"Wren, I'm only eight years younger than

had two children by

to think about marriage, but for now, his priority was setting things right. Restiming his dignified composure, he ordered Fiora to be brought to the palace immediately. At that moment, Fiora was reveling at a party with her noble