THOMASThe house always announces my return in small, obedient ways – the shift of air, the quiet click of doors settling – but Iris feels it more keenly than most. When I step into my bedroom, she's already standing, already attentive, her body turning toward me like it has learned my gravity.“Kneel, princess,” I say.She does.The movement is fluid, unthinking, her knees pressing into the rug. She settles there easily, chin lifted, eyes bright with something that catches my gaze, holds it. The sight of her like this, pliant, warm, waiting, tightens something in my chest that goes deep.I sit down in my large leather armchair and place my hands in her hair, fingers spreading at her scalp, thumbs resting lightly along her jaw. She leans into the contact instinctively, a small sound leaving her before she can stop it.“Did you obey me today?” I ask. "Are all your tasks done to a high standard?"She smiles, a teasing little smile.“Mostly,” she says lightly, almost carelessly. “I mean..
Last Updated : 2026-05-11 Read more