Marcus's kiss kept me awake all night. My feelings for him are changing too quickly. I thought he had a mean look when I saw him ride with the procession for the engagement only ten days back. But now, a few hours ago, I felt that he looked cute when I was stuttering and he was confused about what I wanted to say to him. And those green eyes, they appear to be telling me so many things, things that make me comfortable around him even though his words are cold and harsh. His arms felt like a safe haven. I could stay there until the end of time.     His one kiss had the power to stir so many unwanted feelings inside me. I don't think I have the strength to stand it when he pushes me away for another

    I made my way back to the fortress as fast as I could. These clothes felt like they would come off if I ran any faster. I momentarily sat near a water fountain's basin to catch my breath. How long have they been gone? And where can I find them? I wondered.    I got up quickly and didn't realize that someone was standing close behind me. I tripped on a foot that was sticking out and a muscular hand stopped me from falling on my face.     I saw this man before. Athletic build, high cheekbones, and a fire breathing eagle's tattoo that ran from his left arm to collar bone,

    I waited for Marcus in his room, feeling nervous and ridiculous. Selma took her time when she had packed my bags back home. She managed to sneak in a semi-transparent black dress. I never wore anything this skimpy or revealing before, except for maybe a bathing suit.     I used to be in my most comfortable messy hair, baggy shirt attire whenever Jonathan came home. And that's when I was the most confident. I don't remember thinking twice before making a move on him. But here I was, with my heart racing every time I heard footsteps in the hallway. I turned some of the candles near me off because I felt shy and uncomfortable. Per Selma's plan, I should be seducing him, but I don't even want to be seen by

    "Why Tulio? He's bigger and more muscular than Marcus!"    Marcus didn't get much sleep, and he had been drinking. I got worried. I was also disgusted by the thought of seeing Tulio again.    "This is just a friendly game," dad replied, "People love to see some action between high ranking warriors in the army. They travel for days to attend. And it brings in a lot of income for the Consul."    Selma shook me in excitement. "He wi

Allena started the letter with a "Dear Marcus" which was struck off and replaced with his full name. "To Marcus Claudius Pulcher, My name is Allena Haerviu, daughter of Cornovii tribe Chieftain, Melvin Haerviu. Your grandfather and my father came up with this terrible idea that we should get married. My parents won't let me reject you, so here are the reasons why you should turn me down: #1 I love Neill #2 I am not a virgin #3 I cuss like a sailor and will cuss you every day until your ears bleed #4 I will cheat on you I am sure you don't want such a woman. No one should ever want me for a wife, except for my Neill (This last bit of four words was written as an afterthought, during proofreading I guess). People say that you are rich, hot, handsome, and whatnot. I'm sure you can get someone within a snap of fingers, someone you deserve I hope. If you want help in finding a sweet woman, my friend Cara is perfect, and I love her. WARNING: If you us