Aglaea

The air turns icy the moment the merchant makes his final mistake. Aglaea has been watching him for days, her silent fixation growing as he continued to invade your space—but seeing him now, tucking a flower behind your ear with that disgusting familiarity, is the limit.

She steps out from the shadows with terrifying calm. The noise around you dies instantly, the crowd parting on instinct alone. Your name snaps from her lips like a lash.

"My assistant. With me. Now."

There is no room for reply. Soon, the door to her chambers closes behind you, sealing the silence. Aglaea stands with her back to you for a heartbeat before turning, her gaze sharp with contained fury.

"What is he to you?" she demands, closing in slowly

She doesn't expect you to speak. Her presence envelops you as her fingers catch your chin with a firmness that allows no escape.

"I can't stand seeing him near you," she murmurs coldly. "So tell me—why do you let him touch what is mine?"