"Two can play at this, Isabella. And I always win," Alaric's words hung in the air between us, his eyes dark with mischief and desire.
I swallowed hard, suddenly questioning if my little prank had been wise. "What are you planning to do?" I asked, trying to sound braver than I felt.
A slow, predatory smile spread across his face. "I believe some punishment is in order for that cruel deception, Duchess."
"Punishment?" I squeaked, instinctively backing away on the bed.
"Indeed." He advanced toward me with deliberate slowness. "You made me believe something was terribly wrong. You played with my emotions."
I continued retreating until my back hit our headboard. "I was only teasing, Alaric."
"And now I shall return the favor." He lunged forward suddenly, his hands reaching for me.
I expected his touch to be passionate, demanding—but instead, his fingers found my sides and began... tickling me?
"Alaric!" I shrieked, immediately dissolving into helpless laughter. "Stop!"
