His eyes lifted and locked on hers. His heartbeat increased and his body became alert at her closeness. He almost leaned in and kissed her lips, but he held himself back and glance down. 

“I don’t think I’m a great king. I’m hardly a good one and many people have seen my dark side.” 

“Many people might have seen your dark side, but I’ve seen the good side.” she leaned into him, tiptoeing so that her lips could meet his. 

He kissed back immediately, his ...