Chapter 52: Sparkle

"Don't disturb us. No one should be on the fourth floor. At all," I say to the maid and Roman, my voice holding a threat that brooks no argument. I don't intend for us to be interrupted. Not tonight.

With Noelle's hand in mine, I ascend the stairs, each step dragging me further into my own need for solitude with him. My heart thunders in my chest, my patience wearing thin with how far the room still feels. All I want is a moment of peace with him, alone and away from prying eyes.

"You know, your reputation as the feared general might be in tatters after tonight," Noelle teases with a playful laugh.

"I never cared about my reputation, my star," I reply, keeping my voice steady as I finally lead him to the door of our room. Our room. The largest in the manor, built to impress, but at this moment, all I care about is that it's where we'll be alone. I push open the heavy door, revealing the spacious bedroom within.