One Hundred and Three

Maya was looking forward to seeing the stranger who had captured every bit of her heart and sanity. She didn't understand why she always kept thinking about her encounter with Ivan and wasn't expecting to see him again.

Her breathing was harsh and uneven, and she felt a familiar shiver when one of the guards informed her about hours later that she had a visitor.

Not only was Ivan Holt, he was bold. Not many young dudes would take that risk and come to visit her right in the King's house.

"Mom, I'll be right back," Maya said to her mum, who was busy in a long conversation with Aunt Carmen.

Her mom raised her head. "Where are you going to?"

"The snack shop," she lied. "I won't be long."

Her mom waved her hand, indicating that Maya could leave. Maya snuck back upstairs and watched some more makeup and perfume. Her heart was racing with excitement, and when they met, an invisible web of attraction built between them.

"Hey, stranger," Maya said, suppressing her happiness. "Do you hav