Keith knew Allura inside out. He knew she wouldn't hurt him, at least not intentionally. So Lance's insinuation was ridiculous.

Lance happens to be Keith's best friend, but the guy's an idiot. Of course, he's a well-meaning idiot, but an idiot just the same.

He lives dangerously, and Keith relates to that. Keith used to be in the air force and loves to fly planes. For him, flying is freeing. For Lance, it's a way to attract women.

Lance's need for an audience causes him to make audience-pleasing decisions. He does things like throwing wild parties, flaunting money, and parading women. But none of those things do him any favors. It's frat-boy behavior, and Lance is getting too old.

Because of this, Lance has never been good with women. He's good at getting them, but he's not good at keeping them. So why would Keith listen to him about Allura?

Allura isn't giving Keith a reason to think she's cheating. He returned home early, and he could not expect her to jump because of that. Allura has a right to have a life.

He loves that about her. She gives him space.

Besides, Keith has her routine ingrained in his mind. It was an obsession that he knew not to admit to anyone. It was embarrassing to be this much in love.

Allura gets up with her hair in a braid every morning, wearing some negligee from some high-end store. Those beautiful brown legs run straight to the bathroom before she thinks he's awake. Allura brushes her teeth and then jumps in the shower.

Then she comes back into the bedroom with a towel wrapped around herself, humming some tune. She can't sing, but Keith finds her voice angelic. He can listen to her forever and never get tired of it. Even the way she says his name is like a melody. It leaves him completely unhinged.

Next, Allura sits on her vanity, brushes her hair until it's an enormous bush, and then wets it again. Then, she sprays on some hair product, followed by mousse, and lets her hair air dry.

None of it makes sense. Keith does none of this stuff to his hair. He has threatened to cut it, but Allura said she likes it shaggy.

Allura puts on her clothes and even matches them with her makeup. She insists on wearing it even though she doesn't need it. She is the most beautiful woman he'd ever met.

Keith feels lucky that he gets to watch her move about her life every day. Allura could wear a potato sack, and he wouldn't care. Instead, he's happy to be near her.

He knows her. So he would know if something was off.

Wouldn't he?


Keith walked inside his home, and that was when he heard her.

Allura.

He crept upstairs as she stepped out of the bathroom. Allura doesn't always shower late unless she goes to a fitness class. So late nights aren't usually part of her routine.

When Keith got to their bedroom, Allura was typing a text message. Her silk robe hugged her curves.

"Hello, Princess," Keith said, leaning against the doorpost of their bedroom. His eyes roamed her body hungrily. Allura almost dropped her phone. "I didn't know you were home."

"Hope it was me you're texting," Keith smiled.

Allura wrapped her robe tighter. Her hair was wet, and yet she still looked like a goddess. The room was dripping in roses which is what he asked for. A champagne bucket and glasses were by the bed. Allura made the ambiance more enchanting than it already was.

Not to mention their room was dimly lit. The only light on was their night light that warmed candle wax.

Jasmine and vanilla.

It was a scent so distinct that, if they were to ever break up, the smell will be forever associated with Allura.

"You caught me," Allura beamed.

"Did I?" Keith raised his eyebrow.

"You did. I was about to tell you that it's romantic here." Allura placed a soft kiss on his lips. "I missed you," Allura whispered. "You normally don't do this kind of thing."

Keith rubbed the back of his neck. "Yeah, well, you say I'm not romantic," he smiled sheepishly. "I thought I would surprise you."

Allura giggled as she sat down on her vanity chair. "That's true! When we were looking for this condo, you said, "I guess we should get married if you want."

"I'm sorry, I know it was an awkward proposal," Keith ran his fingers through his hair. "I know I'm not great with these things."

"So I've noticed." Allura teased. "Remember when I read my story in creative writing, and you called my ex an asshole from the back of the class?"

"That's because he was."

"No argument here," Allura said, rubbing moisturizer on her face. "It was the only indication that you held me in some regard. You never seemed to engage when I spoke to you back then."

"The story was so messed up. What kind of man sends roses to his ex-girlfriend's co-worker?" Keith fumed.

"One who isn't kind, like you," Allura blushed while brushing her hair.

"Lucky for him, he didn't go to our school," Keith continued. "I would have beat the hell out of him."

"I love that you want to defend my honor," she beamed.

"Well, there goes my reputation," Keith joked half-heartedly.

"I guess what I mean is I love you for who you are, Keith," Allura smiled brightly. "Your aloof demeanor doesn't frighten me."

Keith stared down at the floor before meeting Allura's gaze again. He always felt at home in her azure eyes. "I guess I'm messing up then."

"Nonsense." She chuckled.

Keith shifted his feet from side to side. "I may have had Acxa set it up," Keith admitted. "The flowers and the champagne. She thought I should do something for you since I've been gone so long."

"Oh, she did?" Allura said with raised eyebrows. "Interesting."

He could see the steam coming from her ears.

Keith walked over to her vanity. His arms snaked around Allura. The sensation of her silk robe cooled his black tee shirt. He dotted kisses on her neck before she met him in a kiss.

Allura's lips were deliciously kissable to Keith. He deepened the kiss while cupping Allura's breast, signaling what he wanted. He felt her body shiver with delight as a soft moan escaped her lips. The very sound sent Keith into overdrive. His hand gripped her thigh, causing Allura to lean into his touch. The smell of her body wash intoxicated him.

As much as he wanted her, he knew this conversation would resurface later, so he released her.

"She's only trying to help, Allura," He rested his forehead on hers. The air of his whisper teased the tip of her nose.

Allura pouted. "She likes you too much for my delicate comfort, Keith."

"Allura," Keith drew her in. "I only want you."

"Good," Allura stood up before pushing Keith onto the bed. Before he could respond, she straddled him. "Because I don't share."

Keith met Allura's gaze only to see a fire in her eyes. His hands roamed her back, leaving a trail of heat while she ground her hips against his. Keith groaned while his hands found her bottom, squeezing it.

Allura was aggressive most of the time, and it was usually a battle of wills.

"You have too much on for my comfort."

Before Allura could respond, Keith tangled his hands into her hair. Drawing Allura into a passionate kiss. She allowed their tongues to swirl with desire before breaking away.

"I want to try some of that champagne you brought." She said with a teasing smile. Allura popped the champagne and poured a couple of glasses.

"Fuck that." Keith stood up and enveloped her in another kiss while taking one of her hands to meet the front of his jeans. Keith felt Allura smirk during their kiss.

"You are anxious, aren't you?" Allura pulled away again. She dropped her robe before he could protest, revealing a racy red sheer ensemble.

Oh, God.

Allura unbuttoned Keith's jeans, cupping his member while unzipping. It took all of his power not to push her against the wall and have his way.

"Sit down on the bed," Allura commanded.

Keith sat down without comment. Allura is in one of her moods, and he's tempted to let her have her way after all.

"I said I wanted champagne." Allura swiped her glass and got on her knees, facing his center. "Thought you might want to share."

Keith's eyes danced with anticipation as he realized what she was about to do.

A wolfish grin spread on his face. "As long as you're prepared to drink up."


Allura slept quietly with her hair strewn across the bed. The air conditioner's hum is an unintended soundtrack to Keith's buzzing thoughts. The fantastic air dances across his body, only clothed in black boxers.

Keith is awake, staring at the ceiling. It's 1 am. Although he and Allura spent the evening making love, he couldn't sleep.

Keith folded his muscled arms behind his head. His thoughts were keeping him from resting—meanwhile, Allura curls into a ball with her head on his chest.

I missed her, and I miss her now, although she's right here.

Keith was known to be a loner. He dated a few women, but none of them kept his attention. The women would become clingy when he dated and demanded all of his time.

But not Allura. The way she smiles lights up the room. She's a flame, and everyone around her is moths.

Keith couldn't explain the spell she had over him. It was crazy-making. She wasn't like the others. Her very speaking voice is like a siren song. It took his breath away. Even in the way Allura walks, it's like she's royalty.

That's why he calls her Princess.

Keith reached over to stroke Allura's hair. Her face was like the artwork of an angel. Although there was nothing was angelic about what they were doing hours earlier.

I guess I should use the bathroom or I won't sleep.

Keith got up to use the bathroom only to see Allura's phone vibrating when he returned.

Who the hell is that?

Allura remained asleep, but Keith became concerned because it wouldn't stop. He soon was afraid it would wake her. So he walked over to silence it.

That's when he saw it.

A missed call from Sven.

Who the hell was Sven?

Then a text.

Sven: "You left your ring over here at the Phoenix. I thought I should let you know, so you don't worry. See you there later."

Keith looked down at her left hand to see her ring was indeed missing. He felt the blood rush to his head.

Allura began to stir, seemingly in response to his energy. Her eyes fluttered as if she had a nice dream.

Instead of lashing out, he willed himself to put down the phone, that is, before he saw another message.

It was another unchecked message in her preview from Romelle.

Keith knew he shouldn't have looked. But now, these messages piqued his curiosity.

"He's hot, isn't he? I am so glad I introduced you two! You are great together!"

Keith put down her phone before he threw it. He felt himself burn into ash as soon as he read it.

Whatever. There's got to be an explanation for this.


It was a hellish day at the company. Keith had meetings all day. He was still sorting his father's affairs, and Acxa was a huge help.

"By the way, how did she like the flowers?" Acxa inquired as she walked into his office to deliver his afternoon cold brew.

"There were a lot of them," Keith mumbled. "But I thank you."

"I thought that is what she would like," Acxa said quietly. "It would be what I would like."

"Allura liked them," Keith said as he typed an email.

"She's lucky to have you," Acxa said, smoothing her skirt.

Just before he could respond, Keith's cell rang. It was Allura.

"I have to take this," Keith looked at Acxa pointedly.

"Right," she said with slumped shoulders. "Let me know if you need anything else."

With a flick of the wrist, Acxa closed the door behind her.

"Hey," Keith answered quietly.

"Keith, honey, how are you?" Allura greeted Keith cheerfully.

"I am okay, just busy, that's all. How about you?"

"Well, I am going to be late this evening."

Keith's nose flared in irritation. "Okay."

"I know it's not ideal, but things are taking longer than expected."

"What things?" Keith pressed.

"Work, Keith," Allura huffed.

"I was under the impression that you worked for yourself, Allura."

"I-I do," she stammered. "But, I want a story on my page, and the project is taking a while."

"Oh, I see," Keith said, irritated. "So you're working late daily for an unspecified time?"

"Just for the next week or two," she said, unsure. "And why all the questions? You usually don't care what I do."

Keith took a deep breath. He didn't sleep well after reading those texts. It's not like he gets jealous. Keith likes to think there isn't a jealous bone in his body.

Not one.

Keith rarely asks when Allura is coming home. Like why would he? He only cares that she's happy and safe.

But he can't help but feel bothered that she forgot her engagement ring somewhere. And with some random guy named Sven? Why is he hanging around with his fiance?

Who the fuck did he think he was by texting her at that hour?

Keith dared not ask Allura because it would mean he was looking at her phone. He would be furious if his privacy was violated like that. But it's been bugging him all day, partly because he's angry at himself for looking.

Allura is stunning, sexy gorgeous, independent, and erotic. Who doesn't want her?

Maybe that asshole who dumped her for her co-worker, but even he tried to come back. Keith was too happy to tell him to get lost at a networking party they both attended.

"What's the matter, Keith?" Allura interrupted his reverie. "You seem on edge this morning and now tonight. Is something wrong?"

Keith grit his teeth. The thought of another man kissing her, touching her, hearing her soft moans was too much. It took everything in him not to lose it.

"I don't know, Allura, is something wrong? You tell me?"

An awkward silence ensued before Allura spoke again. "I will be home later tonight, and you can tell me what is bothering you."

Keith clenched his jaw, "Where was your ring yesterday?"

"I left it in the kitchen at a friend's house."

"A friend? Okay. And why would you take it off?"

"Keith, what is going on?"

"You didn't answer my question, Allura."

"Let's talk about this later." Allura snapped.

"Fine by me," Keith said coldly.

He heard Allura sigh. It was deep, which means he pissed her off. "Have it your way."

With that, she hung up.


Keith entered the bar with balled-up fists. He ground his teeth so hard that he thought they would turn to dust. But, after a long day at work, he agreed to meet him. The guess is that Lance wants to apologize, and whiskey couldn't hurt after his long day.

"I know you said no, man," Lance said as Keith approached the bar. "But I booked this hot spot for your bachelor party." Lance breezed inside the bar, wearing jeans and a tight tee, showing his physique. Then, grinning, he took a seat next to Keith in some unearned triumph. "You're welcome."

"The one thing I asked you not to do, you do." Keith set his drink down, rubbing his forehead. "Shiro is already taking us out on a yacht, remember?"

"Yeah, yeah," Lance waved his hand. "This place is high-end, Keith." Lance guzzled his beer. "The tops. I don't know what the problem is."

Keith sipped his drink without response. Lance was going to do Lance. It was a waste of energy trying to explain how much he didn't want to be bothered.

"Hey, if you're still pissed about me suggesting Allura may be seeing another guy, my bad. I thought for sure this would make up for it."

"This doesn't, because this is the party I DIDN'T ASK FOR."

"Okay, fine." Lance conceded. "So… You talk to Allura?"

"I talk to her every day," Keith gritted his teeth. "What is it to you?"

"Hey, man," Lance put his hands up in surrender. "I'm just asking. Not that I mind having you around, but you're usually with your girl."

Keith hated answering any questions about his personal life. It wasn't anyone's business, especially not Lance's. As much as Lance was his best friend, he annoyed the hell out of him.

"She's fine," Keith grumbled. "She's busy with her work, that's all."

Lance shook his head. "Well, I know better than to suggest otherwise."

Keith glared at Lance.

"Alright, buddy!" Lance raised his hands for the third time. "I'll change the subject."

"So my guy that promotes at the Red Phoenix, Rolo? He's going to lock down VIP for us. I got the ladies lined up for days-"

"Red Phoenix?" Keith sat up straight.

"Yeah, I told you, I booked the place for your party. It's a high-end club and restaurant. They have top-notch food and-"

"Where is it?" Keith cut Lance off again.

"Uh, downtown."

Keith stood up. "Let's go now. I want to check it out."

"Alright, now you're talking!" Lance said as he dropped cash on the car. "I'll call my guy and have a spot reserved for tonight. I'm telling you, your bachelor party will have drinks, Bros and Ho-"

But Keith had already walked out the door.

Lance took one last swig of his beer before picking up his keys.

Looks like he couldn't wait.

Keith hopped into his Jeep without another word from Lance. His only objective tonight was to find out what Allura was up to once and for all.