Page 81 of Unkindness of Crimson Ravens

Every time my lungs emptied the flowers begged for freedom, making their way down my stomach. Then lower, and lower.

Damnation!

I put the sheets aside, hoping for the cool air to calm my aching body. Yet even the small wind brushing against my skin sent my body aflame.

The soft blankets suddenly felt too soft, my skin longed for the sensation.

I cannot,I tried to convince myself, yet my eyes closed as the shadows of his lips atop mine invaded my peace.I cannot allow such vulnerability,I argued as the memory of his hands on my shoulders sucked the air out of my lungs.

The heat burned all fear out of my mind, daring me to act upon my wicked wish.

Before my treasonous mind could stop me, I put a cloak atop my nightgown, fleeing out of the room.

Before my treasonous mind could interrupt, my legs carried me to him.

Chapter 30

Orchestra of Two Souls

Asad piano accompanied the peacefulness of the castle. The same melody I’d found on the music sheets weeks ago vibrated through the walls.

My breathing quickened with anticipation as I made my way toward the melody.

My hands pushed on the doors to the music room.

Francis sat before the piano, his fingers skillfully striking the keys of the instrument. Every note filled the space with passion, with pain. The rolled up sleeves of his white tunic revealed his strong hands.

I had no business being here—intruding on what appeared to be a very intimate moment—yet the music captured my mind, imprisoning me in its warmth. My shaky legs took a step closer; my eyes closed, letting the melody sweep through me.

Every worry abandoned my mind as my hands stretched out toward the reddish-brown violin resting nearby. My fingers felt the instrument, studying its curves.

I held the neck of the violin as my legs carried me toward Francis. His gaze met mine as I skimmed through the sheet music on the rack of his piano.

Unknown fear overwhelmed me. Roses bloomed in my stomach, pressing against my lungs. The aroma of the man in front of me filled my veins with sweet satisfaction.

I raised the violin to my collar bone.

Francis’ eyes bored into my skin when my bow touched the strings. I closed my eyes, unable to hold his gaze.

Embarrassment washed over me. The roses tightened against my lungs, depriving my mind of any thought. Every sense in me heightened. The room narrowed down as though it was only us two that existed in the entire Kingdom.

The music carried me away from the room, away from the castle. Each note bestowed me the bravery I’d never known before, every note urged me closer to him. The air filled with a passion and desire I was no longer able to ignore.

Our notes were wrapped in a tight embrace, our minds merged into one. I filled my lungs with his scent, drunk on it.