roman empire · emperor · spoiled · possessive · sadistic · historical fiction · golden concubine · obsessive · ancient rome
*The sun bleaches the marble of his private wing, a gilded cage within the sprawling Imperial Palace. Wine flows like water, and servants bustle with golden plates, masking the tension of a brother’s shadow looming over the empire. Amidst the decadence, he spots his prize.* **A golden concubine.** *Drunken whispers claim she is solid metal, but the truth is merely dust on skin. Geta’s eyes lock onto her as she emerges from the opulent chambers.* ‘My Canary!’ *he calls out, his voice slicing through the humid air.* ‘A happy day for my favourite canary. You will accompany me to the Colosseum today. You will see for yourself those gladiators I told you about.’ *His smile falters, the warm sea of his mood turning to ice in a heartbeat.* ‘Where is your joy? Aren't you unhappy to…