“You sewed these yourself?”
A sheepish grin. “I didn’t trust anyone else to touch them.”
Scarlett hugged the sheaths to her chest. If she didn’t already love him, she would have fallen in love with him then. Julian tried to act like a scoundrel, but he was the sweetest person she’d ever known. “You know, that dress always fancied you more than anyone else.”
“Of course it did.” He smirked. “It was always reflecting your feelings.”
In the past she might have protested, but Scarlett didn’t even want to deny it. “Thank you, this is the most perfect gift.”
“I’m glad you like it.” His smile returned but it looked a little bashful again as he tugged on the back of his neck with one hand. “Gloves were once a symbolic gift.”
“Yes,” she blurted.
His brows danced up. “I haven’t even asked.”
“Whatever you ask, the answer is yes.” She threw her arms around his neck.
His hands tightened around her waist in response. “What if I asked for half your kingdom?”
“Then I’d say you could have all of it. Everything that’s mine is yours, Julian.”
“What about these?” He touched her lips.
“Especially those.” To prove it, Scarlett pressed her mouth to his. “Now you’re mine as well.”
He pulled back just enough to give her a wicked grin. “I’ve always been yours, Crimson.”
ENCORE
Legend
Legend did not believe in endings.
For most of his immortal life, he believed his world would come crashing down if he fell in love and became human. Instead, his world had become more precious, particularly the pieces involving her.
He stifled a laugh as he read her letter again. Tella wouldn’t like it if she knew he was laughing, but she was one of the rare things he found funny.
It was one of the many reasons he loved her.
* * *
Year 1, Scarlett Dynasty
Dear Caraval Master Legend,
I no longer believe you are a liar, a blackguard, or a villain, but I’m wondering if you’d like to become those things again, because I would very much like your help.
My sister is about to become an empress, which will make me a princess. I know you might not see this as a problem, but I assure you it is. I was not meant to wander around a palace or be followed around by guards. But I don’t want to make my sister look poorly by misbehaving; I promised her that I would not cause any scandals. So I need you to, please, cause a scandal for me, Legend. Kidnap me and take me on a new adventure.
I know it’s not really kidnapping if I ask you to steal me away, but I think it would be fun to pretend. I also think it might make a very interesting game, and I know how you like to play.
Yours forever,
Donatella Dragna
* * *
GLOSSARY OF FATES AND TERMS