The Cursed Villainess and the Tyrant Duke
Episode 11: A Dangerous Proposition
Evelina walks briskly down the grand palace corridor, her heels clicking against the marble floor. The faint hum of the ballroom’s music lingers behind her, but her mind is too clouded to care. Her heart still races from her encounter with Valerius.
Evelina Everhart
*in mind*I need to get a grip. He’s playing a game, and I refuse to be his entertainment.
She exhales sharply, attempting to steady her breath. But before she can fully compose herself, a deep voice interrupts her thoughts.
Valerius Draven
(leaning casually against a pillar) Leaving the party so soon? You’ll disappoint your admirers.
Evelina stops in her tracks, glaring at him.
Evelina Everhart
(coldly) Are you following me now?
Valerius Draven
(smirking) Pure coincidence, I assure you. But I must admit, watching you storm away is quite the sight.
Evelina Everhart
(crossing her arms) And yet, you’re the one chasing after me.
Valerius Draven
(chuckling) Ah, but can you blame me? You do make the night far more interesting.
She rolls her eyes, turning on her heel to leave, but he moves swiftly, stepping into her path. She halts just inches from him, her breath hitching as his eyes lock onto hers.
Evelina Everhart
(warning tone) Move, Duke Draven.
Valerius Draven
(softly) And if I don’t?
Evelina clenches her jaw, refusing to give him the satisfaction of seeing her flustered.
Evelina Everhart
Then I’ll make you.
Instead of looking threatened, Valerius grins, his amusement evident. Then, with unexpected gentleness, he reaches out and tucks a stray strand of hair behind her ear, his fingers barely grazing her skin.
Valerius Draven
(murmuring) You’re always so quick to fight. Ever considered surrendering… just once?
Evelina stiffens at the intimacy of his touch, her body betraying her as warmth spreads through her chest.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*He’s dangerous. Too close. Too—
Before she can finish the thought, footsteps echo down the corridor. A palace guard rounds the corner, stopping abruptly at the sight of them.
Knight
(bowing slightly) My lady, His Majesty requests your presence in the throne room.
Evelina immediately steps back, creating a much-needed distance between her and Valerius.
Evelina Everhart
(nods) Understood.
She doesn’t spare Valerius another glance as she strides past him. He watches her go, his smirk never faltering.
Comments