As the maid began to dab powder on Sharona's cheekbones, a sudden knock echoed at the door.
Sharona's head whipped toward the sound. Her voice turned venomous. "Get the door!"
The maid paused, her hands hesitating for a beat before she bowed slightly and hurried to obey. As she twisted the knob and pulled the heavy door open, her breath caught in her throat.
Standing there, framed by the dim corridor light, was the man she had only seen on Blood City media—the soon-to-be crowned king of Blood City, the vampire prince himself. Prince Damien. He looked taller in person, his presence magnetic and overwhelming.
"Your Highness," she breathed, bowing quickly, her body dipping low in submission. The moment her head lowered, she felt the necklace against her chest pulse—one sharp beat. Then another.
"Lady Sharona?" Damien asked. He couldn't tear his eyes away from her.
