Chapter 17: Curiosity Kills The Cat

Words : 1253 Updated : Sep 10th, 2025

Chapter 17: Curiosity Kills The CatA cold, heartless laugh escaped Zavren’s lips, echoing through the silent dining room. Ariana’s back vibrated softly from the rumble of his chest, pressed firmly against it. "You know one thing you’re really bad at?" he said, pausing as he moved his thumb, wiping away the blood from her lips once more like he had discovered a new favorite treat. He brought it to his lips, licking it slowly. "It’s hiding your expression. You can’t," he added, his tongue slipping out to taste the blood again. Ariana’s lips remained parted. For some reason, the way he did that made her heart thud heavily. Her stomach fluttered—an unfamiliar sensation danced through her, one she couldn’t quite understand. The way his tongue had stuck out... "Don’t even think about biting your lips," he warned, as if he knew that was what she would do next. His voice was low and deadly. "If you do, I’ll stop using my thumb... and use my tongue instead." Ariana’s body froze. Her eyebrows twitched, finally moving together in disbelief at his bold words. she knew he meant every word. He reached for a glass of water and lifted it to his lips. Gulp. Gulp. Gulp. He drank quietly, his Adam’s apple bobbing with each swallow. Ariana’s lips parted slightly as her eyes fixated on the movement—on him. She didn’t know why, but watching it stirred something strange inside her. Her curiosity got the best of her. As Zavren set the glass down and reached for a fork, it clattered loudly to the floor—not by accident. His hand had jerked in surprise. Ariana’s fingers were pressed lightly against his Adam’s apple. She pinched it—then again, and again—then she pushed it in like a button. She blinked, stunned at her own boldness. She hadn’t even realized she’d moved until her fingers were already there, testing what it felt like. What was inside it? Why did it move like that? Realizing too late, she snatched her hand back. Zavren was already staring at her, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Curiosity kills the cat," he said coolly. "The same curiosity that led you to break that painting... hmm?" Ariana pressed her lips together, silent. "Come to think of it," he added, voice smooth and unsettling, "I haven’t given you your punishment yet. That’ll come after the wedding ceremony. For now... enjoy your time exploring the palace." He turned away as if nothing had happened. But Ariana’s heart didn’t settle. Those words... they didn’t sit right with her—not even a little. She moved to stand. "I didn’t tell you to leave," Zavren said, his voice low and firm. "Why are you so eager to flee, my little wolf?" Little wolf? His eyes glinted as he looked at her, curiosity deepening. People wanted him—craved his attention, schemed for a place by his side. But her? She seemed desperate to escape him. Very interesting indeed. Zavren’s jaw tensed slightly as his wolf stirred, growling beneath the surface. Her scent drifted toward him—irresistible, wild, and intoxicating. It coiled around his nose like a seductive warning, igniting a hunger he wasn’t prepared for. What intrigued him even more? She had no idea. "F*ck," Zavren cursed. His hands moved to her waist as he spoke softly. "You may stand." Ariana sighed in relief as she moved. To her surprise, Zavren stood as well. She looked at him with a raised brow, silently asking why he had gotten up. Then he spoke quietly. "Let me give you a quick tour of my castle," he said. Ariana rolled her eyes internally. Of course—it was his castle. He had to make that clear. Then he added, "I have nothing else to do. Why don’t I show my snowflake around? Don’t you think?" He tilted his head slightly as he looked at her. She simply nodded, knowing it was the best response to avoid any further complications. Zavren’s lips curled into a smile. "You see? You’re getting the hang of it," he said, gently tapping her hair like she was a well-behaved pet who had just returned the little ball thrown. Together, they began walking toward the entrance. The door opened just as Raven spoke with a bow. "Your Highness, it seems you have a lot of papers to sign—" His words trailed off as Zavren’s sharp gaze met his. Then he corrected himself quietly, "Your Majesty, there’s something important that needs your attention." Zavren waved a hand dismissively. "Handle it. What I’m about to do now is far more important." Ariana looked up at him. If she wasn’t mistaken, she’d heard something about papers—important ones from different kingdoms and villages, which likely required his signature. ’Then why did he say he had nothing to do’ She brought her hands together in a subtle gesture, suggesting he go handle them and that she could manage on her own. But Zavren’s expression only darkened. His calm eyes moved into hers briefly, then turned back to Raven. "Get out," he said firmly. Ariana’s body stilled at the sudden change in tone—so rigid and devoid of any warmth. Raven bowed respectfully and left the room without another word. Ariana couldn’t believe how sharply Zavren’s demeanor had shifted within seconds. Zavren subtly nudged his elbow toward her, offering it for her to hold. Ariana glanced at his arm, then looked up at him. "Go ahead," Zavren urged gently. Her cheeks flushed as she slowly wrapped her hand around his arm. The color deepened when she realized how many people might see them together. An Alpha... and a girl who could barely speak. She didn’t want to ruin his reputation with her inability to speak. "If you want me to move on, just tap my hand," Zavren said. Ariana pressed her lips together and nodded. She had so many questions—why had he chosen her of all people? She couldn’t even speak properly. What would others think, seeing an Alpha walking with a nearly mute girl? She pressed her lips even tighter. "This is the garden," Zavren said as they walked, his voice calm and smooth. He turned slightly to look at her, the corners of his lips lifting into a small smile. "It’s meant just for me." Then he added, "Now that you’re here... it belongs to both of us." Ariana’s heart skipped. Her mouth opened and closed again, unsure what to say. Zavren’s grin widened. "You love it, don’t you?" he asked. Her face turned even redder. She looked away but gave a small, shy nod. Zavren chuckled at her reaction. They continued walking, now outside the castle. Her eyes caught sight of a curious area—not grassy, but smooth and open. She looked more closely. The wind blew softly. Zavren noticed her interest and followed her gaze. "That’s the archery range," he said. Ariana nodded, her interest piqued. Three men stood in formation, releasing arrows with practiced precision. It seemed something was happening there. "If you’re curious about that," Zavren said, following her gaze, "it’s just training. Some of the royal guards come here to practice." Ariana nodded again, a small smile curling on her lips. Zavren’s lips parted in surprise. For a moment, he was speechless. Her smile... that rare treasure she always kept hidden—she finally let it out. He watched her silently. But then, his expression shifted. The warmth in his gaze darkened. She hadn’t smiled because of his words. She was smiling... at the brown-haired man drawing his bow in the archery range.

Chapter 17: Curiosity Kills The Cat

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