"Mmhmm." Daemon reached around her to shove the dishes away, making just enough space for what he wanted, then leaned back in his chair once more. "And I think you'll like it, but you have to trust me for it to work. No more screeching, indignant posturing, or huffy pouting. You're a woman now, and it's time to get on with that. All right?"

He'd never in life hurt her, but she wasn't a child anymore, and if she was going to be his Queen, then she was going to be his Queen in all ways. It was time for the little bird to be a dragon.

"Now." And the King's gaze was sharp and focused as he gazed up at his future bride. "Take off your dress."