Maisah Mae

I close my eyes, letting my mind drift somewhere else, somewhere warmer. Somewhere filled with sound and light and the echo of voices that aren’t shouting commands.
A melody forms without effort, soft and slow, unfolding naturally as I hum under my breath. It isn’t from anything I’ve heard before, but it felt right, like my soul was speaking.
It began as a slow melody, melting into a lullaby of sixth intervals that danced into perfect fourths and major thirds.
For a moment, I can almost disappear into it.
Peaceful like the trickling flow of water.
So soothing, I could drift away and lie in the safety of myself…

Chapter 1

…

“I wouldn’t mind sharing space with a prince,” I say, smirking.
James’s mouth curves slightly.
“Why? You want to be queen, Lyra?”
I roll my eyes, feinting left before shifting my weight.
“Not for his title, James. Don’t be ignorant.”
I feint left, then kick.
He barely dodges as I meet his gaze.
“For his body.”
Brynn bursts out laughing.
“That’s my girl! Know your priorities!”
I grin at her, and that’s all it takes.
Suddenly, I’m pulled back as my spine hits something solid, warm, and firm. His arm locks around my neck, holding me in place, my back pressed flush against his chest. I stutter as his breath brushes my ear, struggling to breathe around his muscles.
“If you wanted a man’s body,” he murmurs, “all you had to do was ask, Lyra.”

Chapter 8

…

I will do what needs to be done in order to protect my future. To protect the identity I cling to at night.
I will not die.
I am strong.
I grit my teeth in an attempt to move my limbs.
I am an artist. I will not accept my end. Not until everyone knows my name.

Chapter 12