Whispers of Peril

Victoria confronts Alaric with the pearl earring found in his chambers, but he diverts her suspicions with commanding misdirection and royal authority while the narrow escape forces both him and Josie to confront the rising danger of their passion. Their resolve to create distance collapses during a tense private session as explicit desire overwhelms them once more, even as Damien presses closer and the palace walls seem to close in.