Elara’s POV

"Leave it to me, Elara. I’ll handle all the security systems. Keeping our family safe is on me," Dorian declared with conviction.

I gave him a nod, then shifted my attention to Finnian. My confidence wavered. Out of all my husbands, he was the only one who seemed untouched by reality—refined, flawless, ethereal. I studied him carefully and gave a slight shake of my head.

Finnian’s brow creased, his lips pressed into a thin line as he gazed at me with that helpless, innocent expression. When our eyes locked, I couldn’t suppress my laughter. He genuinely looked like a sulking, neglected spouse.

"My lady, isn’t there anything I can contribute?" he asked, his tone pitiful and wounded, yet carrying quiet determination.

His voice stayed level, but anyone could tell he was irritated—maybe even envious.

I was practically doubled over with laughter. What had gotten into Finnian? I’d witnessed people battle over cash, but never over household duties.

"Really?" I arched an eyebrow.

"Absolutely." Finnian nodded with determination. Everyone else had assignments—why was he being left out?

He glanced around at the others, then back at himself, slipping off his pristine white satin robe. "Can you assign me something now, my lady?"

"Come over here." I gestured for him to approach.

Finnian caught my mischievous smile, his eyes dropping to my hands. He knew exactly what I had in mind, but played innocent anyway. "For what purpose?"

The irritation was all show; inside, he was thrilled. He was naturally gifted at playing harmless.

My gaze drifted slowly across his form.

Something feels familiar here.

He reminds me of someone...

Look at our adorable, defenseless little white fox. So tempting.

Though he might be putting on an act.

I pushed the thought aside.

He ended up confined in that asylum, despite having a low breakdown threshold. What damage could he possibly cause? He’s just as clueless as Dorian.

God, marriage has scrambled my brain. Mental note: don’t fall this deep again.

When Finnian stayed put, I walked over and dropped a hat on his head. Before he could process it, he was crouching down.

When he lifted his gaze, I was gripping a small shovel.

I grinned, "I packed my secret hideout. You two are coming with me."

The other half of "you two" was Barrett, naturally.

He was solid and perfect for manual labor.

"I want one too." Barrett stepped forward with gravity and lowered his head.

I quickly fitted a hat on him as well. After changing into work clothes, the three of us took a scooter into the forest, following my map.

The floating island was breathtaking. For a moment, I felt transported back to Earth—the Earth from my childhood.

Clear blue sky, gentle breeze, just slightly warm...

I’d stocked up on nutrient drinks. We’d rough it for now with everything happening; once the hideout was finished, I’d go on a massive shopping spree. They’d showered me with so many presents—I wanted to return the favor.

Fitted tanks and harnesses? Perfect. These guys would be incredible in them.

A feather toy for Dorian. 𝘧𝓇𝑒𝑒𝑤ℯ𝑏𝓃𝘰𝑣ℯ𝘭.𝘤ℴ𝘮

A chew stick for Barrett...

I paused. Barrett was tall and powerful—something that tiny wouldn’t suit him at all.

Fine, I’ll switch it to silk-trimmed black underwear.

But what if the size is wrong?

Well, why should a confident woman get bashful? I’ll just measure him.

Or use my hands. Most reliable measuring method there is.

I settled on the chew stick instead.

The playful four-piece collection for Si. But Kaelen? That dramatic dragon...

My face brightened for an instant. All I could picture was restraining him and having my way.

For Julian, I’d spotted a set in Bound and Unbound earlier.

Tiny crystals, black mesh—designed for the muscular merman. A woman shouldn’t limit herself.

Alistair? A proper husband. An apron would be ideal for him. Decided.

When I reached Finnian, I hesitated. I stared at my phone while walking. I had the perfect accessory in mind for him, but it was incredibly inappropriate.

What suits a reserved, sophisticated man? Lace, obviously.

"Elara?" Barrett’s voice snapped me back to reality.

"Yeah?"

He moved around Finnian, leaned in from behind me, and pointed at a lace blindfold on my screen. His voice was deep and warm. "I’ll wear it for you. Deal?"

That tone...

Oh god.

I jumped. His rich, masculine scent surrounded me. My back pressed against his firm chest, and my face flamed crimson—not from shyness, but pure mortification.

I locked my phone, completely humiliated.

Shit. I was just having a little naughty fantasy, and I got busted completely.